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LIBRARY 

THE  UNIVERSITY 
OF  CALIFORNIA 

SANTA  BARBARA 


PRESENTED  BY 

MRS.  WILLIAM  ASHWORTH 


The  Star  in  the  East:  A 
Biblical  Drama  in  Four 
Acts:  by  Anna  Jane 
Harnwell 


Sarp"^  French:  Pub-    ler 

28-3  ,     *-irty-eighth  Street:  N*        ^ork 

LONDON 


4^ 
LC 

*^  No  Plays  Sent  on  Appro^ .  vXAV^AJ.^  xchanged 

PRICE  THIRTY-FIVE  CENTS 


(.        LG.    T^rench, 


THE  STAR  IN  THE  EAST.  Bible  pUy  b  four  act*  by  Anna 
Jane  HarnweU.  9  males,  4  females.  Plays  a  full  evening.  Biblical 
costumes.  This  four  act  drama  is  one  of  the  prize  plays  resulting 
from  the  contest  recently  held  by  the  Drama  League  of  America 
in  the  hope  of  securing  much  needed  Biblical  scenes  for  use  in  the 
religious  schools.  A  drama  of  the  Book  of  Esther.  It  is  written 
in  blank  verse,  and  adheres  closely  to  the  Bible  narrative.  Mor- 
decai  ia  the  star  role  for  a  man,  but  the  characters  of  Esther, 
Vashti  and  the  King  are  almost  equally  good.  The  very  beautiful 
and  dramatic  setting  of  the  Old  Testament  story  makes  it  quite 
as  interesting  as  a  secular  production,  though  it  is  esi>ecially  suit- 
able for  churoh  or  Sunday  School  use.  Settings  as  simple  or  as 
elaborate  as  desired.     Price  35  oents. 


JEPTHAH'S  DAUGHTER.  Biblical  dn.jia  in  1  act,  by  Elma 
Ehrlich  Levinger.  5  males,  6  females.  This  one-act  drama  of 
the  time  of  Esther  is  one  of  the  prize  plays  resulting  from  the 
contest  recently  held  by  the  Drama  League  of  America  in  the  hope 
of  securing  much  needed  material  on  Biblical  themes  for  use  in  the 
religious  schools.  It  presents  the  familiar  story  from  a  new  and 
dramatic  angle,  with  a  strong  element  of  suspense.  The  characters 
are  vividly  drawn,  the  dialogue  poetic  without  being  stilted.  It 
may  he  presented  either  with  simple  settings  and  a  small  group,  or 
as  a  pageant  play  with  elaborate  scenic  effects,  a  large  cast  and 
interpolated  choruses  and  group  dances.     Price  35  cents. 


THE  NATIVITY,  a  Chi.jtmas  festival  composed  entirely  of  selec- 
tions from  the  Bible  story  of  the  Nativity,  arranged  as  a  mystery 
play.  It  is  accompanied  by  carols  and  is  adapted  for  easy  pro- 
duction by  children  or  young  people,  to  be  given  as  a  service  at 
Christmas  time  in  the  churches.  The  "Nativity"  was  published 
a  few  years  ago  in  the  "Youth's  Companion."  Since  that  time 
there  has  been  so  large  a  demand  for  it  by  churches  of  all  de- 
nominations we  have   arranged   for   its  publication.     Price,   35   cents. 


The  Star  in  the  East 

A    BIBLICAL    BR  AM  A    IN    FOUR    ACTS 


BY 
ANNA   JANE   HARNWELL 


PRIZE  PLAY 
Drama  League  of  America 


Copyright,  1921,  by  Drama  League  of  America 

The  religious  Drama  Contest  was  conducted  by  the 
Drama  League  to  provide  much  needed  dramatic  material 
for  church  work.  That  these  plays  may  be  available  for 
the  largest  possible  public  use,  permission  is  granted  ama- 
teurs to  perform  the  plays  without  royalty,  but  all  profes- 
sional rights,  including  Little  Theaters  &  Motion  Pictures, 
are  reserved  by  the  Drama  League.  Applications  for  pro- 
fessional productions  should  be  addressed  to  the  Drama 
League  of  America,  59  East  Van  Buren  Street,  Chicago, 
111. 


New  York 
Samuel  French 
Publisher 
28-30  West  38th  Street 


London 
Samuel  French,  Ltd. 
26  Southampton  Street 

Strand 


CHARACTERS 


>        Chamberlains 


Ahasuerus,  King  of  Persia  and  the  East 

Hegai 

Shaasiigaz 

Harbonah 

BiGTIIAN 

Teresii 

Haman,  an  Amalekite.  the  king's  favorite 
Mordecai,  a  Jew,  the  cousin  of  Hadassah 
A  Scribe 

Vasiiti,  the  Queen 

Hadassah,  a  Jewess  (afterwards,  Esther) 
Anna,  her  handmaid  (afterwards,  Nicaso) 
A  Slave 

Soldiers.   Archers,   Male   and   Female 
Slaves  and  Handmaidens 

The  play  is  laid   in  Shusan,  the  capital   city   of 
Persia,  in  the  latter  part  of  the  fifth  century  B.C. 


LTBRA7?Y 

UNIVERSITY  OF  CALIFORNIA 

SANTA  BARBARA 


The  Star  in  the  East 


ACT  I 

Scene.  A  simple  room  in  the  house  of  Mordecai, 
the  Jew,  near  the  palace  of  King  Ahasuerus. 

At  tipper  left  a  heavy  striped  curtain  closes 
the  opening  into  the  street.  Near  this  door  are 
the  racks  for  the  large  zvater  bottles.  Two  or 
three  are  in  these  racks.  On  a  shelf  are  a  few 
earthen  utensils,  bozvls  and  cups,  as  well  as  a 
basin  of  copper.  In  the  back  center  is  an  open 
wiyidozv,  through  which  one  may  see  the  gar- 
dens of  the  palace  and  a  portion  of  the  palace 
itself. 

Anna  sits  before  a  loom  weaving  some  pur- 
ple cloth.  A  large  roll  of  the  completed  zveave 
lies  beside  her  on  the  floor.  She  sits  on  a  low 
stool.  Nearer  the  center  Hadassah  reclines  on 
a  pile  of  cushions.  She  is  about  eighteen  years 
old,  and  beautiful  in  the  dark  oriental  fashion. 
Both  she  and  Anna  are  dressed  in  the  fiozving 
simple  JeziAsh  costume  of  the  time.  Hadassah 
is  reading  aloud  from  a  scroll  as  the  curtain 
rises. 

Hadassah  : 
"They  that  hated  them  ruled  over  them, 
Their  enemies  also  oppressed  them, 
And  they  were  brought  into  subjection  under  their 
hand. 


6  THE  STAR  IN  THE  EAST 

Many  times  did  he  deliver  them ; 

But  they  were  rebellious  in  their  counsel, 

And  were  brought  low  in  their  iniquity, 

Neverlheless  he  regarded  their  distress, 

When  he  heard  their  cry; 

And  he  remembered  for  them  his  covenant. 

And   repented   according  to   the   multitude   of   his 

mercies. 
He  made  them  also  to  be  pitied 
Of  all  those  that  carried  them  captives. 
Save  us,  O  Lord  our  God, 
And  gather  us  from  among  the  nations, 
To  give  thanks  unto  thy  holy  name, 
And  to  triumph  in  thy  praise." 

(Pauses  a  moment  in  thought.) 

David  foresaw  our  sorrow  when  he  wrote  this 
hymn  of  the  captivity.  I  wonder  shall  we  ever  live 
to  sing  the  song  of  our  deliverance? 

Anna.  I  like  not  this  hymn.  It  is  over  long.  I 
like  the  short  ones  best. 

Hadassah.  Naughty  Anna !  Thou  sayest  that 
but  to  tease.     How  lovely  is  the  color  in  that  cloth ! 

Anna: 
Well  may  thou  say  so.     I  got  the  dye 
From  an  old  Tyrian  merchant.     'Tis  a  rare 
And  secret  root,  and  very  costly.     (Holds  up  some 

of  the  cloth.) 
'Twould  be  beautiful  embroidered  all  in 
Lilies  or  in  leaves,  vine  leaves  and  tendrils — 
Nay,    sweet    Hadassah,    frown    not,    you    know    it 
would. 

Hadassah  : 
I  know  these  Persian  customs  tempt  our  race 
From  the  mosaic  law.     "No  likeness,"  doth  it  read, 


THE  STAR  IN  THE  EAST  7 

"Of  anything  in  heaven  or  in  earth 
Or  even  in  the  vi^aters  underneath, 
Shall  be  devised  by  Israel,  saith  the  Lord." 

(Regards  it  contemplatively.) 

But  if  we  trim  it  v/ith  a  fringe  of  gold 
It  would  be  worthy  even  of  a  queen. 

Anna: 
And  thou  hast  royal  blood  within  thy  veins, 
Even  Saul's  blood,  who  "was  a  mighty  king. 

Hadassah  : 
Little  avails  what  flows  within  the  veins 
Of  a  poor  Jewish  maid.     The  child  of  exiles. 
Daughter  of  a  race  despised  and  persecuted. 

Anna: 
Sweet  Hadassah,  look  not  so  sad.     Read 
From  the  marriage  hymn  I  always  love. 
'Twill  make  thee  smile,  and  I  will  work  again. 

Hadassah  : 
Thou  art  my  sunshine,  Anna.     Thou  scatterest 
Sorrow  as  the  sun  the  clouds.    Here  is  the  place — 

(Reads) — 
"Hearken,   O  daughter,  and  consider,  and  incline 

thine  ear ; 
Forget  also  thine  own  people  and  thy  father's  house ; 
So  shall  the  king  desire  thy  beauty : 
For  he  is  thy  Lord ;  and  worship  thou  him. 
And  the  daughter  of  Tyre  shall  be  there  with  a  gift ; 
Even  the  rich  among  the  people  shall  entreat  thy 

favour. 
The  king's  daughter  within  the  palace  is  all  glorious  ; 
Her  clothing  is  inwrought  with  gold. 
She  shall  be  led  unto  the  king  in  broidered  work. 


8  THE  STAR  IN  THE  EAST 

I  will  make  thy  name  to  be  remembered  in  all  gen- 
erations : 

Therefore  shall  the  peoples  give  thee  thanks  for  ever 
and  ever." 

(A  pause,  zvhile  Hadassaii  sits  lost  in   thought.) 

Anna: 
Why  so  sad,  mistress?    This  great  king  is  not 
Unkind.    He  is  a  gentle  master. 
Our  people  do  not  suffer  as  they  did 
Beneath  his  father's  rule. 

Hadassah  : 
I  know,  and  yet  Mordecai  saith  he's  led  most  easily, 
The  power  of  Haman  waxeth  day  by  day. 
He  hates  our  people.    He  will  strike  at  them 
If  once  his  favor  with  the  king  is  sure. 
I  fear  the  man. 

Anna: 

There's  the  queen,  Vashti ; 
Rumor  everywhere  says  the  king  hearkens 
To  her  lightest  word. 

Hadassah  : 

'Tis  true.     The  king 
Is  captive  to  her  beauty.    And  why  not  ? 
Her  skin  is  alabaster  where  each  vein 
Is  marked  with  sapphire.     All  her  hair 
Is  crinkly  gold,  which  streams  below  a  waist 
Like  to  a  willow  wand.     But  beryls  are 
Her   eyes ;   while   her  proud   heart   was   cut    from 

marble, 
So  hard  and  cold  it  is.     Mordecai  saith 
He  fears  her  more  than  Haman,  and  Haman 
Is  but  her  creature. 


THE  STAR  IN  THE  EAST  9 

Anna: 

Always  there's  the  king. 
He  hath  a  kindly  smile.     I  cannot  think 
That  he  would  do  us  harm. 
Hadassah  : 

I  hope  as  thou. 
He  hath  a  kindly  smile  and  wondrous  eyes, 
Yet  Hegai  tells  my  father  when  he's  roused 
And  fired  by  heat  of  passion,  he  becomes 
As  firmest  steel,  thrice  hardened  in  the  fire 
Of  his  own  wrath.    Alas !  our  people  live 
In  daily  peril. 
Anna: 

If  only  this  poor 
Remnant  might  be  saved ! 
Hadassah  : 

It  must  be  saved 
Until  Messiah  comes ;  The  Prince  of  Peace 
Isaiah  once  foretold.     Surely  the  Lord 
Hath  not  forgot  his  children,  who  languish 
Here  in  exile  and  in  tears !    We  must  have 
Faith,  though  hope  be  nearly  fled. 

(Enter  Mordecai.  He  is  a  handsome,  commanding 
figure,  about  sixty  years  of  age,  dressed  in  dark, 
flozving  robes  zvith  a  turban  on  his  head.  He 
wears  a  full  grey  beard.) 

Mordecai.     Peace  be  to  thee,  and  unto  all  this 
house ! 

Hadassah  a«(/ Anna.     (Rising)    And  unto  thee, 
O  master,  peace  and  grace. 

Hadassah.     (Embracing  him) 
O  Mordecai,  my  father,  thou  art  welcome. 
Come  rest  upon  these  cushions.     Tell  thy  daughter 
What  is  the  news  with  thee? 


10  THE  STAR  IN  THE  EAST 

MORDECAI  : 

I  am  most  weary. 
The  air  hath  been  so  sultry,  and  tlie  heat 
Oppressed  me  sorely.     It  is  good  at  last 
To   rest  within   the  house.      (Turning   to   Anna.j 

Anna,  I  think  the  maids 
Do  linger  overlong  about  the  well 
To  tattle  with  each  other  and  to  catch 
The  ever-ready  eyes  of  passing  men. 
Go  fetch  them  back,  and  bid  them  quick  prepare 
The  evening  meal. 

Anna.     Thy  handmaid  goes  in  haste.     (Exits.) 

Hadassah.     (Brings  him  zvater  in  a  cup) 
Drink  this,  my  father,  cool,  just   from  the  spring. 
Then  will  I  wash  thy  feet  and  fan  thy  brow. 

MoRDECAi.     Nay,  daughter,  call  a  maid  to  do  the 
task. 

Hadassah  : 
I  love  to  wait  on  thee.     Forbid  me  not, 
The  while  we  talk  together. 

Mordecai  : 

No  daughter 
Of  my  loins  could  be  to  me  what  thou  art,  Hadassah ! 

Hadassah. 
I  quite  forget  I  am  not  thine  own  child. 
Thou  knowest  I  recall  no  other  sire ; 
Thou  hast  been  all  my  parents  from  my  youth. 

Mordecai  : 
I  oft  remember  how  a  tiny  babe 
I  took  thee  from  thy  dying  mother's  arms. 
A  strong  man  was  thy  father,  but  the  exile 
Quite  broke  his  heart :  my  father's,  too,  but  he 
Was  bent  with  years.    He  was  the  eldest  son 
Of  Shimei's  house.     Thy  father  was  the  youngest. 

Hadassah.     Canst    thou     remember    all     those 
frightful  days? 


THE  STAR  IN  THE  EAST  ii 

MORDECAI : 

No,  Hadassah,  I  was  too  young.     Yet  I 
Remember  well  the  grief  of  all  my  kin ; 
Those  tears  of  age  so  scalding  to  a  babe. 
I  saw  my  father  full  of  years  bowed  down 
With  sorrow  to  his  grave.     I  saw 
My  haughty  kinsmen  bend  their  necks  beneath 
The  yoke,  and  kiss  the  rod.    I  saw  our  ways 
Despised ;  our  customs  flouted ;  our  worship 
Made  a  mock  ;  our  God  denied,  and  this  fire  god, 
This  Ahuramazda,  praised  in  his  stead. 
Yet  still  I  live,  and  hope,  and  pray,  and  wait. 

Hadassah  :   Tell  me  once  more  about  Jerusalem. 

MoRDECAI  : 

Ah,  Hadassah,  I  was  too  young  to  have  my  mind 
Retain  much  of  that  splendor.     Yet  methinks 
I  still  can  see  the  temple  stand,  all  glorious. 
It  was  built  of  cedar  wood  and  fir  trees 
Overlaid  with  gold.     Blazoned  it  was 
With  jewels  all  within.     'Tis  indistinct 
Yet  vivid,  like  a  dream,  which  comes,  then  fades. 
It  would  seem  the  tales  of  Jair,  my  father. 
Give  it  more  color  than  my  memory. 

Hadassah  : 
I  wonder  if  my  feet  will  ever  stand 
Within  thy  gates,  O  great  Jerusalem? 

MORDECAI : 
It  is  the  city  of  the  king.     It  draws 
Each  Jew,  as  the  lode  star  doth  draw 
All  metals  to  itself. 

Hadassah  : 
Our  future  is  so  dark,  we  need  a  star. 

MoRDECAI  : 

A  star — wait — that  reminds  me  of  my  dream, 
A  curious  dream.     A  dream  I  had  last  night. 
It  came  as  morning  broke  and  it  has  held 
My  thoughts  until  this  hour. 


12  thp:  star  in  the  east 

Hadassah  : 

Tell  it  me,  Mordecai. 

MORDECAI  : 

Methought  I  saw  a  star  of  wondrous  light 

And  perfect  beauty,  rise  here  in  this  land 

And  slowly  take  its  way  towards  the  west. 

Its  rays  fell  on  the  heathen  who  fell  down 

And  worshipped  at  its  passing.     It  rested 

At  Jerusalem  above  the  throne  of  the  Messiah. 

By  its  light  the  gentiles  saw  his  majesty 

And  power,  and  brought  him  gifts  and  homage. 

Angels  sang,  and  even  lowly  shepherds 

Saw  its  beauty.    Then  it  faded,  and  I  awoke. 

But  all  this  day  I've  pondered  o'er  its  meaning. 

Hadassah  : 
How  wonderful !     It  must  foreshadow  forth 
Some  great  event.    What  could  it  mean  ? 

Mordecai  : 
I  think  it  means  that  one  of  us  shall  rise 
And  save  this  people ;  that  by  his  great  light 
The  heathen  shall  perceive  and  understand 
Our  greatness  and  the  greatness  of  our  God. 

Hadassah  : 
Would  that  he  might  rise  soon !     For  now  we  rest 
In  constant  peril,  do  we  not,  my  Father? 

Mordecai  : 
An  exiled  race,  which  by  its  conquerors 
Is  held  in  scorn  and  hatred,  must  always  be 
In  peril  of  its  life.    We  are  a  shred, 
A  remnant  of  a  once  mighty  people, 
Yet  we  hold  the  faith.    Through  Red  Sea  perils, 
Through  the  wilderness,  the  Lord  our  God  hath 
Brought  us,  by  his  grace. 

Oft  hath  he  saved  us 
From  wicked  men  and  our  own  naughtiness. 
We  have  been  scattered  and  made  subject  for 


THE  STAR  IN  THE  EAST  13 

Our  great  transgressions.     Still  there's  a  remnant 

left. 
Still  there  is  leaven,  to  leaven  the  whole  lump. 
The  Lord  is  on  our  side,  so  we  care  not 
What  man  can  do  against  us ! 
Hadassah  : 

I  shall  be 
Ever  thinking  of  thy  dream.    We'll  watch 
Each  night  at  dusk  for  the  new  star.    We  must 
Not  miss  it. 

MORDECAI : 

It  will  find  us  as  always 
On  the  watch.     There, 

(As  she  puts  on  his  sandals  again.) 

I  am  much  refreshed. 

(The  maidens  enter  and  put  food  before  Mordecai 
and  HadassahJ 

Bless  Thou  this  food,  O  Lord. 

(The  maidens  zvait  on  them  passing  food  and  water, 
etc.) 

Hadassah  : 
Thou  hast  not  told  me  if  there  is  aught  new 
About  the  palace.     Didst  thou  see  Hegai? 

Mordecai  : 
Yes,  I  have  talked  to  him.    Thou  knewest  his  mother 
Was  a  Jew,  a  Bcnjamite,  dead  at  his  birth? 
He  was  brought  up  quite  ignorant  of  all 
Our  sacred  customs,  and  of  the  true  God. 
I  talked  to  him  to-day.    Hegai  hath  abandoned 
This  Mazdao,  this  deity  of  fire. 
To  worship  our  Lord  God.     Outwardly  he 


14  THE  STAR  IN  THE  EAST 

Gives  lip  service  like  so  many  others 

Who  follow  Zoroaster,  but  in  his  heart 

He's  with  us.    Ah,  I  had  most  forg^ot, 

He  told  me  some  small  gossip  of  the  court. 

It  seems  last  night  the  king,  Ahasuerus, 

Gave  a  great  feast  to  satraps  of  his  realm 

And  many  visiting  princes  from  afar. 

When  heated  with  much  wine,  he  offered  them 

A  vision  of  the  beauty  of  his  queen. 

fHADASSAii  utters  an  exclamation  of  astonishment.) 

I  know,  my  daughter,  'twas  unworthy,  quite. 
But  Hegai  says  that  he  was  mad  with  wine. 
She,  too,  was  feasting  with  her  womenkind 
When  came  a  slave  commanding  her  to  come 
To  the  king's  presence  in  her  royal  robes, 
Hadassah.     And  she? 

MORDECAI : 

Refused.    Then  sent  he  seven  men. 
His  chamberlains,  to  bring  her  to  his  side. 
This  time  she  sent  a  haughty  answer  back 
Saying  she  was  no  show  for  lesser  men. 
But  just  the  king,  her  soverign  and  her  lord. 
Then  waxed  the  king  exceeding  wroth,  and  so 
Did  all  the  princes  who  did  banquet  there, 
Saying,  "If  so  the  queen  may  disobey, 
No  woman  in  the  kingdom  will  bow  down 
And  do  her  husband's  will."    At  this  the  king 
Demands  what  he  should  do  with  such 
A  stiff-necked  woman?    Straight  made  they  answer, 
"Let  her  be  cast  down   from  her  high  estate,  and 

made  a  slave 
Where  she  has  ruled  a  queen ;  then  seek  throughout 
Thy  kingdom  for  a  maid,  who  shall  be  worthy 
To  enjoy  the  light  of  thy  most  august 
Presence,  and  to  sit  beside  thee  on  thy  throne 


THE  STAR  IN  THE  EAST  15 

In  royal  state,  and  yet  obedient 
To  thy  smallest  wish." 

Hadassah.     And  did  the  king  in  this  wise? 

MORDECAI : 

Hegai  was  not  sure.     He  doubteth  much 

If  Ahasuerus  will  degrade  the  queen. 

She  holds  him  in  the  hollow  of  her  hand. 

For  she  is  like  the  moon  flower  at  the  dusk 

For  beauty.     Rose  petals  fresh  with  dew, 

Such  is  her  skin ;  her  breath  is  lily  perfume, 

And  her  eyes  do  shine  like  stars  upon 

A  winter's  night.    His  heart  is  tangled  in  her 

Rippling  hair,  and  will  not  easily  be  taken  thence. 

Hegai  thinks  the  morn  will  make  him  pause 

When  fumes  of  wine  have  died  out  of  his  brain. 

Hadassah  : 
How  could  she  trifle  with  a  love  so  great? 
"The  king  he  is  thy  Lord ;  him  shalt  thou  serve." 
So  says  the  psalmist. 

Mordecai  : 

Yes,  but  David's  words 
Form  not  the  rule  of  life  for  such  as  she. 

Hadassah.     Hast  seen  Lord  Haman? 

Mordecai  : 

Aye,  he  waxeth  great 
And  greater  every  day.     Alone  I  stood 
Erect  in  all  the  crowd  who  bowed  and  fell 
Down  prostrate  as  he  passed.     If  looks  could  kill 
Then  would  I  live  no  more,  for  in  his  eyes 
Were  poisoned  arrows  set  to  strike 
Upon  my  heart,  and  slay  me  as  I  stood. 

Hadassah.     I  fear  him,  Father. 

Mordecai  : 

I  do  fear  him,  too, 
But  more  I  fear  to  bow  myself  before 
A  man  or  image.    Jews  abase  themselves 
But  to  their  God,  and  I — I  am  a  Jew. 


i6  THE  STAR  IN  THE  EAST 

My  veins  run  hot  with  Wood  of  mighty  kings. 
I  will  not  bow  to  Human  though  I  die. 
Nor  yet.  he'll  find  has  he  become  so  great 
That  he  dare  try  to  force  me  to  his  will. 

(Enter  Anna  in  great  excitement.) 

Anna: 

O  master,  hast  thou  heard  the  edict  sent 
Through  all  the  land,  and  posted  on  the  gates 
Of  Shusan? 

MORDECAI  : 

An  edict,  damsel? 
Pray  what  says  the  skin  ? 

Anna: 
It  orders  that  fair  virgins  shall  be  sought 
And  brought  from  far  and  near  to  Hegai ; 
He.  when  their  purification  shall  be  done 
Will  bring  the.se  to  the  king  for  him  to  choose; 
And  if  there  be  a  maiden  fair  enough, 
Ahasuerus,  even  our  mighty  king, 
Will  take  her  to  himself  and  make  her  queen, 
And  place  her  on  the  throne,  the  throne  of  Vashti. 
And  rumor  goes  that  haughty  Vashti  has  become 
A  slave ! 

Mordecai.     Then  it  was  true  as  Hegai  hath  said! 

Hadassah  : 
\^'hat  power  for  good  hath  Vashti  cast  aside? 
To  serve  as  slave  where  once  she  reigned  the  queen ! 

Anna: 
Methinks  that  every  Persian  maid  will  try 
To  deck  her  charms,  and  pray  that  Hegai 
May  find  her  fair ;  then  will  she  have  the  chance 
To  pass  in  turn  before  the  king  himself. 

Hadassah.     (Musingly) 
She  should  be  like  the  almond  tree  in  bloom. 
With  eyes  like  flax  flowers  after  summer  rain ! 


THE  STAR  IN  THE  EAST  17 

Her  walk  should  be  the  lily  in  the  wind ; 
Her  hair  spun  sunshine ;  while  her  dewy  lips 
Should  be  pomegranates  parted  over  pearls ! 

MoRDECAi.     (Who  has  been  listening  and  ivatch- 
ing  Hadassahj 
Nay,  Hadassah — and  why  should  not  her  hair 
Be  like  ripe  olives,  or  the  raven's  wing? 
Her  eyes,  be  forest  pools  at  midnight? 
Vashti  was  fair:  perchance  the  mighty  king 
Would  rather  choose  a  maid  of  darker  hue. 

(With  a  wave  of  the  hand  he  dismisses  the  maids 
zvho  have  been  serving  the  food.  Then  he  turns 
to  Anna  J 

I  fain  would  be  alone  with  Hadassah. 

(All  exit  except  Mordecai  and  Hadassah.  A  long 
pause  during  which  he  walks  up  and  down.  She 
looks  wonderingly  at  him.) 

My  daughter,  has  thou  never  thought  to  wed? 
Hast  seen  a  man  who  stirs  thy  maiden  heart? 

Hadassah  : 
Why  ask  me  that,  my  Father?    Well  thou  knowest 
All  my  acquaintance.     Though  I  am  lowly 
Yet  I  can't  forget  that  thou  and  I 
Are  of  a  kingly  line.     No  man  has  stirred  my  pulse, 
Nor  no  man  should,  unless  he  be  as  noble 
As  myself. 

Mordecai  : 
I  knew  we  were  a  stiff-necked  generation. 
I  did  expect  an  answer  no  less  proud. 

(He  pauses.) 

Wilt  go  to  Hegai  and  prefer  thy  claims 


i8  THE  STAR  IN  THE  EAST 

To  be  presented  to  this  Persian  king? 

Hadassaii.     (Astonished) 
If  it  should  be  thy  wish,  so  is  it  mine, 
But,  Father,  well  thou  knowest  that  no  Jew 
Could  ever  hope  to  sit  upon  the  throne. 

MORDECAI  : 

Why  need  it  to  be  known  thou  art  a  Jew? 
None  except  Hegai  need  the  secret  share, 
Nor  he  if  we  think  wise.    He  hath  not  seen 
Thy  charms.    He  does  not  know  thee  for  my  daugh- 
ter; 
Though  I  should  deem  it  best,  since  Hegai 
Is  my  friend,  that  he  should  know  the  secret 
Of  thy  race. 
Hadassah  3 

But   my   name  ? 
None  but  a  Jewess  is  called  Hadassah. 

MORDECAI  : 

Hadassah  shall  vanish.    In  her  place  shall  come 
A  maid  of  Persian  name.     All  except  Hegai 
Will  think  she  comes  from  distant  parts. 

Hadassah.     Anna  could  go  with  me? 

MoRDECAi.     If  thou  desirest. 

Hadassah  : 
I  love  her  more  than  all  my  handmaidens, 
And  she  hath  knowledge  far  above  her  station. 
May  we  consult  her? 

MoRDECAi.     As  you  please. 

Hadassah.     (Goes  to  door  and  calls)    Anna! 

('Anna  enters.) 

Anna.     Here  am  I,  Mistress. 

Hadassah  : 

Anna,  I  would  speak 
Upon  a  matter  of  most  grave  import. 
Mordecai  desires  I  try  my  fortune 


THE  STAR  IN  THE  EAST  19 

To  appear  before  the  king. 

Anna: 
O  wonderful !     So  shalt  thou  be  the  queen 
And  reign  in  Vashti's  stead 

Hadassah  : 

Silence, 
Thou  chatterer!    There  is  small  hope 
That  I  should  be  the  choice  among  such  hosts 
Of  beauty.     If  I  go,  wilt  thou  go  with  me 
As  a  Persian  miad  ?    For  none  must  know  our  race. 

Anna: 
Gladly  will  I  go,  and  stay  forever  by  thee, 
If  so  Ahasuerus  should  choose  thee 
To  be  his  queen. 

MORDECAI : 

That  choice  is  with  the  Lord. 
We  will  pray  to  him.    If  it  be  his  will 
That  Hadassah  be  queen,  perchance  great  good 
May  come  to  all  us  Jews,  who  languish 
Exiles  in  this  foreign  land. 
Anna: 

But  how 
Shall  we  be  called,  that  none  shall  know  our  birth 
Or  race  ? 

MORDECAI. 

We  must  consider  that. 
Thou  canst  answer  to  Nicaso ;  'tis  a  name 
Well  known  and  common :  now  for  Hadassah 

Anna.     (Looking  lovingly  at  her  mistress) 
It  needs  must  be  a  name  as  beautiful 
As  she  herself.     Such  name  were  hard  to  find. 

Hadassah  : 
Thou  flatterer!     Ah,  Anna,  if  all  the  world 
Saw  with  thine  eyes  I  should  be  queen  indeed. 

Anna.     'T would  be  thy  right. 

Mordecai  : 

Peace,  chatterers ! 


20  THE  STAR  IN  THE  EAST 

This  business  cannot  wait.     We  needs  must  choose 

A  name.    Then  I'll  away  to  Hegai 

And  ask  if  he'll  present  thee  to  the  king. 

Let  us  consider.     Likest  thou  Nourmahal? 

Hadassah  : 
Light  of  the  Harem?    Nay,  I  like  it  not. 
It  soundeth  like  a  concubine,  not  queen. 

MoRDECAi.     Light  of  the  world  Nourjehan.     Lik- 
est thou  that? 

Anna.     'Tis  hard  to  speak.     It  sticks  upon  the 
tongue. 

MoRDECAi.     Zobcide?    Zulicka?    What  of  those? 

Hadassah.     (Shaking  her  head) 
I  like  them  not.     I  think  no  foreign  name 
Would  suit  my  fancy.     Choose  thou  alone. 
Really  it  matters  not  what  I  am  called 
For  a  brief  twelvemonth. 

MORDECAI  : 

Hadassah,  I  feel 
'Tis  for  no  twelvemonth,  but  for  all  thy  days. 

Anna: 
I  like  the  sound  of  Esther,  for  a  queen : 
Queen  Esther — that  is  music  to  the  ears. 
The  king's  the  sun,  the  queen  should  be  a  star, 
A  glowing  star  rather  than  the  cold  moon 
These  Persians  love  so  much. 

MORDECAI  : 

Esther!     A  star! 
A  star  was  in  my  dream.    God  spoke 
The  word  with  Anna's  lips.     It  is  a  sign 
Thou  shalt  be  queen  and  more ;  for  by  thy  light 
These  heathen  shall  see  clear,  and  in  thy  rising 
Our  race  that  languishes  in  night  and  fear 
Shall  rise  again.    The  Lord  is  with  us.    He 
Hath  told  thy  name.    The  Lord  shall  keep 
Thy  going  and  thy  coming,  from  this  time  forth 
And  still  forevermore.     Blessed  be  Our  Lord, 


THE  STAR  IN  THE  EAST  21 

The  God  of  Israel,  from  everlasting 
Even  to  everlasting. 

Anna  and  Hadassah.     Amen. 

MORDECAI  : 

I  go  to  Hegai.    Prepare  thyself 
To  enter  in  his  custody. 

(He  takes  her  in  his  arms.) 

Farewell,  my  Hadassah.     Like  Abraham  of  old 

I  offer  thee  to  God  to  do  his  will, 

With  certain  faith  that  he  will  save  my  child 

As  he  did  Isaac  from  the  knife  and  fire. 

Remember  always  thou  art  Esther  now, 

The  bright  star  of  my  dream.     Through  Hegai 

I'll  send  thee  counsel  oft  and  messages 

Of  comfort  and  of  love.    Art  pleased,  my  daughter? 

Hadassah  : 
I  am  content  as  always,  Mordecai, 
T^  do  thy  will. 

Mordecai  : 

I  hope  to  bring  great  news 
When  I  return.     Again  farewell.     The  Lord 
Watch  between  thee  and  me  when  we  are  absent 
From  one  another. 

f  Hadassah  bows  her  head  as  he  blesses  her  and  ex- 
its.) 

Anna: 
Esther,  the  queen!     It  hath  a  pleasing  sound. 
Like  to  the  bulbul  singing  to  the  night. 

Hadassah.     (Musing) 
Like  to  the  bulbul  singing  to  his  mate. 
I  wonder, — will  the  king  of  all  the  world 
Desire  my  darkness?    Vashti  was  so  fair. 


22  THE  STAR  IN  THE  EAST 

Anna: 
She  was  the  sun  at  noon,  who  scorches  those 
Who  bask  within  her  light.     Thou  with  thy  raven 

hair 
And  eyes  like  midnight  pools ;  with  thy  soft  smile 
And  wise  and  tender  heart,  art  like  the  cool  night 
After  a  fierce  day,  which  all  men  sigh  for. 

Hadassah  : 
I  pray  thy  words  prove  true.    But  get  thee 
Again  to  work.    HI  surely  need  the  fair 
Fruit  of  thy  loom. 

{'Anna  returns  to  her  weaving,  and  Esther  sits 
again.  She  picks  up  the  scroll  and  turning  it, 
apparently  idly,  begins  to  read  aloud.) 

"Forget   also   thine    own    people   and    thy    father's 

house ; 
So  shall  the  king  desire  thy  beauty : 

(A  pause.) 

She  shall  be  led  unto  the  king  in  broidered  work : 
The  virgins  her  companions  that  follow  her  shall  be 

brought  unto  thee. 
With  gladness  and  rejoicing  shall  they  be  led: 
They  shall  enter  into  the  king's  palace. 

(A^ain  she  pauses  and  sits  dreaming  a  moment.) 

I  will  make  thy  name  to  be  remembered  in  all  gen- 
erations !" 

(An  exalted  expression  comes  over  her  face,  the 
scroll  drops  from  her  hand  and  she  gases  as 
though  into  the  future  as  the  curtain  slowly 
falls.) 


ACT  II 

One  year  has  elapsed. 

The  scene  is  the  inside  of  a  great  tent  in  the  gardens 
of  the  king's  palace.  It  is  hung  with  magnificent 
draperies  of  white  and  green  and  blue.  An  en- 
trance at  left  draped  with  a  curtain,  gives  ad- 
mittance from,  the  women's  quarters.  At  left 
and  right  back  are  two  other  entrances,  from 
both  of  which  the  curtains  are  partly  draped 
back.  At  the  right  is  seen  the  entrance  to  a  pas- 
sageway. This  passagezvay  leads  to  the  women's 
apartments  in  the  palace  proper. 

Near  the  center  of  the  stage  is  a  raised  dais 
on  which  is  the  royal  divan.  Back  and  to  the 
right  of  it  is  a  low  table  with  scrolls  and  writ- 
ing materials  with  a  stool  behind  on  which  will 
sit  the  scribe  or  maker  of  chronicles.  There  are 
a  few  other  divans  near  the  dais  and  in  the  lower 
left  corner  is  a  pile  of  cushions  on  which  will  re- 
cline the  virgins  zvho  are  to  be  inspected  to-day. 
At  rise  of  the  curtain,  Haman,  a  handsome 
figure  in  court  dress,  enters  by  the  opening  at 
the  right  center.  A  moment  later  the  curtain  at 
the  left,  the  entrance  to  the  zvomen's  apartments, 
is  drawn  aside,  and  a  beautiful  slave  enters. 
This  is  Vashti,  formerly  the  queen.  She  ad- 
vances cautiously  but  stops  on  seeing  Haman, 
and  waits  for  him  to  approach. 
^3 


24  THE  STyXR  IN  THE  EAST 

Ha MAN : 
Away,  slave !     (Suddenly  recognising  her.)    Vashti ! 

This  is  madness ! 
Disgrace  for  me,  and  death  perchance  for  you 
If  we  are  seen. 

Vashti  : 

You  did  not  use  to  fear 
My  presence.  Haman.  You  sought  my  favours 
On  your  bended  knees. 

Haman.     The  times  have  changed. 

Vashti  : 

Ay, 
And  may  change  again.     Take  care,  Lord  Haman, 
Lest  in  fear,  thou  be  not  always  on 
The  winning  side,  thou  dost  not  overleap ! 
Mine  were  the  favours  which  made  thee  what  thou 

art! 
Take  care,  thou  dost  not  need  my  help  again ! 

Haman.     (Fawningly) 
I  need  all  help,  and  I  would  give  all  help, 
But  now  a  twelvemonth's  slave,  thou  canst  not  hope 
The  king  takes  thought  of  thee. 

Vashti  : 

I  know  he  does. 
He  can  find  none  but  me  to  fill  his  arms. 
He  longs  for  me  in  watches  of  the  night. 
Remembrance  of  my  charm  hath  made  him  pass 
A  hundred  virgins  by  unnoticed. 
Four  only  now  remain.     Think  you  he'll  find 
A  queen  among  those  few?    But  yesterday 
I  heard  he  asked  of  me.     I  shall  return. 

Haman : 
Perchance.     I  know  he  grows  impatient. 
And  is  moody  because  he  finds  no  maid 
To  take  thy  place.     But  what  can  Haman  do? 

Vashti  : 
Bring  me  to  mind.     Talk  of  my  beauty. 


THE  STAR  IN  THE  EAST  25 

How  wonderful  I  looked  upon  his  throne! 
How  worthy  the  great  honor  once  he  gave! 

Haman : 
No  man  dare  speak  thy  name  before  the  king. 

Vashti  : 
Which  means,  thou  dare  not.    Coward  that  thou  art ! 
Then  go !    The  time  will  come  when  thou  wilt  wish 
Thou  hadst  paid  heed  to  slave  as  well  as  queen ! 

Haman : 
I'll  guard  against  that  time. 

('Vashti,  zvith  a  look  of  hatred,  slips  back  between 
the  curtains  of  the  door  just  as  Hegai  and  Mor- 
DECAi  etitcr  at  left  center.  Haman  proudly  ac- 
knoivledges  the  salute  of  Hegai  zvho  salaams 
low  before  him.  Mordecai  inclines  his  head  as 
Haman  does.    Haman  turns  to  him.) 

Haman: 

Insolent  Jew, 
Upon  thy  servile  knees  I 

Mordecai.     Lord  Haman,  I  kneel  but  before  my 
God. 

Haman : 
Take  heed,  dog,  I  will  bring  thee  to  the  ground 
Beneath  my  feet  ere  I  am  done  with  thee. 

^Haman  exits  left  center.) 

Hegai  : 
Thou  makst  a  bitter  enemy  of  him. 
Would  thou  couldst  give  lip  service  as  I  do ; 
He  grows  in  favour  daily.    Good  were  it 
To  have  him  for  thy  friend. 

Mordecai  : 

Hegai, 
Not  for  the  favour  of  the  king  himself 


26  THE  STAR  IN  THE  EAST 

Would  my  knees  crook  except  to  God,  my  Lord. 

Hegai  : 
Thou'rt  bent  on  self-destruction.     I  have  learned 
'Tis  hard  to  stand  upright  in  palace  walls. 

MORDECAI  : 

I  walk  in  palaces  as  I  would  walk 
Upon  Judea's  hills — a  Hebrew  prince! 
What  news  of  Esther? 

Hegai  : 
She's  like  a  doe  beside  the  water  brooks 
For  beauty.     She'll  be  among  these  last 
The  king  doth  view  to-day.     He  wearies 
Of  the  business.     Few  are  kept  even  as  concubines. 
The  most  he  hath  returned  to  their  own  homes. 
I  hope,  and  yet  I  dread  the  outcome. 
Much  I  fear  his  thoughts  still  turn  to  Vashti. 
Bitter  and  full  of  hatred  at  her  fall 
She'd  work  great  evil  should  she  mount  again. 

MORDECAI : 

Could  I  have  speech  with  Esther?    My  heart  yearns 
To  hear  her  voice,  lo,  now  these  many  days. 

Hegai  : 
'Tis  a  great  risk,  but  I  might  run  it  if 
There  still  be  time.     Bide  here  a  moment. 
I  seek  Shaashgaz,  to  learn  the  time  the  king 
Would  seek  the  maids.    Stay  out  of  sight 
In  case  some  one  appears.     'Tis  better  that 
No  man  should  see  thee  here. 

('Hegai  exits  and  Mordecai  moves  over  behind  the 
dais  near  the  tabic  of  the  scribe.  From  this 
place  he  is  out  of  sight  of  the  actors  in  the  next 
scene,  zvhile  he  can  see  and  overhear.  Again 
Vashti  cautiously  pushes  aside  the  curtain,  and 
thinking  the  tent  is  empty  steals  to  the  door  by 
which  Mordecai  and  Hegai  entered.  As  she 
approaches   this   entrance,   Bigthan   and  Te- 


THE  STAR  IN  THE  EAST  27 

RESH  appear  in  the  doorway.    She  beckons  them 
to  come  in  and  the  three  go  down  to  left  front.) 

Vashti  : 
I'm  glad  that  thou  art  come.    A  moment  hence 
I  hurried  out  thinking  I  heard  thy  tread 
And  met  Lord  Haman,  proud  Amalekite ! 
Cowardly  dog! 

Teresh  : 
Did  he  ignore  thy  blood,  thy  royal  state ? 

Vashti  : 
He  but  remembered  that  I  am  a  slave, 
A  former  stepping  stone  to  his  high  place. 

BiGTHAN.     (Putting    his    hand    on    his    sword) 
Thou  still  hast  kinsmen  !    Say,  shall  we  avenge ? 

Vashti.     Lop  not  the  branch ;  it  falls  when  falls 
the  trunk. 

Teresh.     The    trunk?      What    meanest    thou? 
Surely  not  the 

Vashti  : 

King? 
Perhaps.    Why  not?    He  is  a  mortal  man 
Whom  steel  will  kill.    To-day  he  sees  the  last 
Of  all  those  virgins  offered  for  his  queen. 
But  one  has  any  chance,  a  rose  of  dusk, 
I  curse  the  day  whereon  she  saw  the  light ! 
Yet  there  is  hope.    If  none  of  these  succeed 
Then  may  I  mount  again.    He  needs 
But  small  excuse  to  bend  his  pride  to  his  desire. 
And  if  I  triumph,  weep,  my  enemies! 
But  should  he  choose  a  maid,  I  languish  here 
A  slave  forever,  while  my  kinsmen,  you 
Will  fall  as  surely  as  the  ripened  fruit. 
A  new  queen  will  have  minions  of  her  own. 

Bigthan.     What  shall  we  do?    We  wait  but  thy 
commands. 


28  THE  STAR  IN  THE  EAST 

Vashti  : 
Ahasuerus  shall  not  see  the  night 
Of  that  dark  day  he  takes  another  queen ! 

Teresh.     Thou  hast  a  plan? 

Vashti  : 

I  have ;  and  'twill  succeed 
If  in  my  kinsmen's  veins  runs  blood  not  milk. 

Teresh  : 
The  thought  of  all  thy  wrongs  makes  them  run  fire. 
Say  on,  what  is  thy  will? 

Vashti: 
Through  yonder  passage  way  the  king  must  go 
To  lead  the  virgin  to  the  royal  rooms ; 
If  he  doth  choose  a  queen,  stand  you  within 
The  folds  on  either  side  and  stab  him  deep 
As  he  goes  by. 

BiGTHAN.     And  we ? 

Vashti  : 

Escape  outside 
Before  the  hue  and  cry.    Then  enter  by  this  door 
Aghast  of  countenance  and  torn  with  grief. 

Teresh  : 
That  will  we  do.    The  trunk  shall  fall  in  sooth, 
And  many  branches  will  be  carried  down 
And  much  fruit  spilled  when  we  have  done  our  work. 

Vashti  : 
Here  are  two  daggers,  cunningly  prepared 
With  points  that  bite  and  poison  as  they  strike. 
Take  care  you  are  not  scratched.    Go !    Linger  not ! 

BiGTHAN  : 

No  queen  shall  ever  sit  in  Vashti's  place! 

Teresh  : 
Burn  incense  to  Mazdao  for  his  aid ! 

Vashti  : 
Quick,  some  one  comes ! 

CVashti  slif>s  back  into  the  door  at  the  left,  zvhile 


THE  STAR  IN  THE  EAST  29 

BiGTHAN  and  Teresh  disappear  down  the  pas- 
sage at  the  right.  As  they  vanish  Mordecai  sits 
in  the  scribe's  seat  and  is  writing  rapidly  as 
Hegai  enters.) 

Hegai  : 
The  king  will  make  his  choice  within  the  hour. 
He's  in  a  hasty  and  impatient  mood. 
I  fear  no  maid  will  please.    What  dost  thou,  friend? 
Thou  must  be  off.    I  dare  not  let  thee  wait ; 

Mordecai  : 
One  moment  only.    I  would  send  a  word 
To  Esther,  but  a  line. 

(He   continues   writing,    then   hands   the   scroll   to 
Hegai. j 

Give  this  to  her 

And  bid  her  to  mark  its  contents  well, 
Then  give  it  to  the  king.     I'll  wait  without. 
Thou'll  't  tell  me  the  result  when  it  is  known? 

Hegai  : 
Trust  me,  my  friend,  I  know  a  father's  heart. 
Pray  to  thy  God.    If  He  hath  any  power 
He'd  best  show  it  to-day.     I've  never  seen 
The  king  in  such  a  mood. 

Mordecai  : 
God  is  our  refuge  and  our  strength ; 
A  very  present  help  in  time  of  trouble. 
I  go  to  pray  to  Him. 

('Mordecai  exits.  Hegai  claps  his  hands  and  armed 
black  slaves  enter  and  take  their  stations  one  on 
either  side  of  each  door.  Hegai  then  goes  to 
the  left  entrance  and  raises  the  curtain.) 

Hegai  : 
Quick,  with  the  maidens!    Is  all  ready? 


30  THE  STAR  IN  THE  EAST 

A  Slave.    (As  she  enters) 
They  come  at  once,  my  lord. 

^Slaves,  Vashti  among  them,  enter  and  arrange  the 
cushions  in  lower  left  of  stage.  Then  enter  the 
four  maidens  zvith  their  handmaids,  among 
whom  are  I^sther  and  Nicaso.  The  virgins 
are  veiled.  They  recline  upon  the  cushions, 
while  their  handmaidens  arrange  a  last  fold  of 
their  robes  or  an  escaped  tress  of  hair,  so  that 
they  may  appear  more  perfect  before  the  king. 
Hegai,  standing  in  center  of  stage,  calls  Esther 
to  him,  just  before  she  is  about  to  sit.) 

Hegai.     Esther ! 

Esther.     (As  she  approaches)     Yes,  Hegai. 

Hegai  : 
Thy  father  bade  me  give  this  scroll  to  thee. 
Mark  what  it  says,  then  give  it  to  the  king 
If  chance  doth  serve.    He's  in  an  impatient  mood. 
If  thou  canst  sooth  him,  thou'll't  deserve  a  crown. 

Esther: 
I  can  but  try.     I  pray  the  Lord  anoint  me 
With  oil  of  gladness ;  make  the  king  to  see 
The  love  I  bear  him.    Love  doth  work  all  things. 

Hegai.     I  hope,  but  have  small  faith.     Back,  to 
thy  place ! 

^Esther  returns  and  reads  the  scroll  given  her  by 
Hegai.  There  is  a  fanfare  of  trumpets  and  the 
curtain  at  the  right  center  is  lifted  by  two  slaves. 
Then  two  slaves  armed  zvith  great  axes  enter 
and  take  their  places  on  either  side  of  the  dais. 
Then  comes  the  scribe  who  takes  his  place  at 
the  table.  Shaashgaz  and  Harbonah  enter 
and  wait  on  either  side  of  the  door  as  the  king 
comes  through.    They  then  join  and  accompany 


THE  STAR  IN  THE  EAST  31 

him  to  the  divan  on  the  dais,  where  he  sits, 
while  they  stand  near  him.  After  these  come 
two  more  armed  slaves.  The  king  is  dressed  in 
a  costly  crimson  robe.  On  his  head  is  a  richly 
jewelled  turban.  He  carries  a  small  golden  scep- 
tre, and  has  a  dagger  in  his  sash.  Hegai  ap- 
proaches the  throne.  The  king  extends  his 
sceptre  to  him  perfunctorily.  Hegai  prostrates 
himself.    The  four  virgins  rise.) 

Ahasuerus  : 
Thy  maidens  are  not  worth  a  kingly  glance. 
The  last  I  would  not  have  for  concubines. 
Unveil  these  maids !     Thy  rank  and  future  state 
Hang  in  the  balance.    Thou  wast  to  bring  a  queen ; 
Thou  hast  brought  none  but  slaves.    Quick  !    Unveil ! 
Then  I'll  appoint  a  judge  of  womenkind 
To  take  thy  place. 

Hegai.     (Prostrating  himself) 

O  king,  have  mercy  ! 
Well,  I  know  no  maid  is  worthy  of  thy  grace, 
Because  thou  art  perfection.     From  Ethiop 
To  the  Ind  I've  searched ;  May  one 
Find  favour  in  thy  sight ! 

(At  the  King's  bidding  the  maids  have  unveiled. 
Now,  at  a  sign  from  Hegai  they  come  to  the 
foot  of  the  dais.) 

Ahasuerus  : 
Damsels,  approach;  and  let  me  see  thine  eyes. 

(Suddenly  he  notices  Esther.  He  looks  at  her  ay 
though  fascinated.  He  waves  the  others  back 
and  rising  comes  slowly  towards  her.  Hegai 
Txnth  the  others  draws  back,  watching  the  King 
with  anxiety  and  hope.) 


32  THE  STAR  IN  THE  EAST 

Ahasuerus  : 

Maiden  !    What  art  thou  called? 

Esther.     Esther,  my  lord. 

King: 
Esther?    A  star?    Thou  art  a  star  indeed. 
The  evening  star  that  glimmers  in  the  dusk ; 
The  star  of  morning  ere  the  dawn  appears ; 
The  star  of  love  in  my  long  night  of  gloom. 
Why  art  thou  here? 

Esther: 
To  be  thy  handmaid,  lord,  or  else  thy  slave. 
I  would  rest  near  thy  presence  and  reflect 
The  light  thy  countenance  sheds  on  all  around. 
Thou  wert  my  love  from  my  youth  up.    In  dreams 
I  served  thee  as  a  child.     I  see  thee 
And  I'm  like  to  swoon  with  joy. 

King: 
Thou  art  the  new  moon  in  the  purple  dusk! 
Thou  art  the  almond  tree  in  early  spring! 
Thy  eyes  are  like  deep  pools  beside  a  rock ; 
Thy  breath  the  breeze  that  blows  from  orange  flow- 
ers; 
Thy  hands  are  butterflies ;  thy  maiden  form 
Is  as  a  lily  swaying  in  the  wind. 
I  love  thee !    I  have  longed  for  thee  at  night ; 
And  at  the  dawn,  and  in  the  noontide  heat ; 
I  wanted  thee  when  in  the  camphire  trees 
The  bulbul  sang;  thou  art  to  other  maids 
As  sapphire  stones  to  clay.    Dost  love  me,  Esther? 

Esther  : 
O  king,  my  heart  doth  open  at  thy  words 
As  lotus  lilies  to  the  sun  at  noon. 

(She  prostrates  herself  before  him.) 

Thou  art  my  sun ;  I  live  but  in  thy  light ; 


THE  STAR  IN  THE  EAST  33 

My  soul  lies  open  for  my  lord  to  see. 

King.     (Lifting  her  up  and  embracing  her) 
Kneel  not  to  me ;  so  falls  the  cowering  slave, 
And  I  would  have  thee  for  my  love,  my  queen, 
My  risen  star  to  shine  o'er  all  the  world, 
And  reign  with  me  in  ever  royal  state. 

Esther  : 
Thy  handmaid  sinks  in  ecstasy  beneath 
Thy  royal  favour. 

King: 
My  senses  win  before  thy  loveliness ! 
Even  this  night  shall  see  our  wedding  feast. 
Then  will  I  gratify  thy  lightest  wish ; 
Cities  shall  send  their  ransom  unto  thee; 
Tyre's  offering  shall  be  her  rarest  silks ; 
Artificers  in  Ninevah  shall  know 
No  rest,  till  thou  art  laden  down  with  gold 
Worked  cunningly  as  none  but  they  know  how ; 
The  Ind  shall  send  thee  ointments  sweet,  and  pearls ; 
Thebes  shall  bring  ivory ;  while  maids 
Of  Babylon  shall  broider  costly  veils 
To  shield  thy  face. 

What  shall  I  give  thee  for  a  wedding  gift? 
Ask  to  the  half  of  all  my  kingdom's  worth. 

Esther  : 

0  king,  my  lord.  I  ask  a  single  boon ; 
Read  thou  the  contents  of  this  scroll. 
Sent  by  a  friend ;  'tis  for  thine  eyes  alone. 

Ahasuerus.     (Frowning) 

Another's  favour? 

1  had  rather  thou  preferred  a  wish  of  thine. 

(His  expression  changes  as  he  reads.) 

"Know  that  Bigthan  and  Teresh  have  plotted 
with  Vashti  to  kill  the  king  if  he  shall  choose  a 


34  THE  STAR  IN  THE  EAST 

queen.  In  proof  thereof  they  lurk  hetween  the 
curtains  of  the  passage  which  leadeth  to  the 
apartments  for  the  queen.  Upon  their  persons 
are  two  daggers  sharp,  tipped  with  a  deadly 
drug,  so  that  a  scratch  will  end  his  life. 
"Signed, 

"MORDECAI." 

Quick,  slaves!     Search  in  the  hangings  of  the  way 
That  leadeth  to  the  palace.    We  will  know 
If  there  is  aught  of  truth  in  what  he  writes. 

CHarbonah  leading  the  7vay,  four  slaves  bring  forth 
BiGTHAN  and  Teresh  from  the  passage. 
Vasiiti  stands  among  the  women  slaves  in  fear 
and  anger  at  the  frustration  of  her  plans.) 

Search  for  their  daggers.    Careful !    They  are  tipped 
With  venom  deadly  as  an  adder's  tongue. 

(There  is  a  slight  scuffle  as  the  slaved  take  the  wea- 
pons. They  display  the  two  daggers  to  the 
King.; 

Fools!     Who  enjoyed  my  favours! 

(He  again  mounts  the  dais,  taking  Esther  ivith  him. 
He  zvraps  her  in  his  cloak  as  he  draws  her  down 
beside  him  on  the  divan.  He  turns  to  the  two 
conspirators.) 

The  music  of  a  jealous  woman's  tongue 

Hath  lured  thee  to  thy  doom,  and  made  thee  strike 

The  root  that  nourished  thy  tree  of  life! 

Away  with  them  to  slow  and  torturing  death ! 

Let  multitudes  behold  their  agonies 


THE  STAR  IN  THE  EAST  35 

That  all  may  know  the  fate  which  waits  for  those 
Who  dare  attempt  aught  evil  'gainst  their  Lord. 

Teresh.     (Falling  in  the  arms  of  the  slaves) 
Too  late,  O  king !    Dark  death  is  not  thy  slave 
To  come  and  go  as  thou  dost  order. 

BiGTHAN.     (As  he,  too,  falls  dying) 
The  poison  of  these  daggers  was  well  made! 

Ahasuerus  : 
Treacherous  to  the  last !     Take  them  away, 
They're  carrion  for  the  dogs !    One  yet  is  left 
Who  shall  not  so  escape. 

(He  glances  tozvards  the  corner  where  Vashti  cow- 
ers, while  the  slaves  remove  the  bodies  of  Te- 
resh and  BiGTHAN.j 

Hegai.     What  of  the  slave,  O  king? 

Ahasuerus  : 

Hegai, 
Thou  shalt  answer  for  her  Hfe.     She  shall  not  die. 
Death  were  too  good  for  her.     Nay,  she  shall  live 
And  see  my  happiness. 

She  shall  thirst  for  my  favour  as  he  thirsts 
Who  travels  without  drink  for  many  days 
In  a  great  desert,  and  sinks  down  at  last 
In  sight  of  crystal  pools  he  may  not  reach ; 
Hearing  the  plashing  stream  he  may  not  touch ; 
While  others  bathe  and  drink  beneath  the  shade. 

('Vashti  gives  a  moaning  cry  as  she  sinks  down  and 
slaves  drag  her  out  of  door  at  left.  The  King 
turns  to  Esther.) 

My  star,  this  was  no  boon  for  thy  sweet  self ; 
It  was  a  gift,  a  princely  gift  from  thee ; 
The  gift  to  me  of  life,  now  doubly  precious 


36  THE  STAR  IN  THE  EAST 

Since  I  have  thy  love.     Health,  power  and  riches, 
These  I  had  before ;  within  the  hour  thou'st 
Added  love  and  life.    A  gift  fit  for  a  queen 
To  bring  her  lord. 

Esther.     (Pointing  to  the  scroll) 
My  lord,  I  brought  thee  love,  'twas  all  I  had, 
The  life  was  from  another. 

AlIASUERUS: 

But  through  thy  hand. 

(He  takes  her  hand  and  presses  it  to  his  lips.) 

That  hand  as  soft  and  white,  as  almond  petals 
'Neath  a  silver  moon.     I  had  forgot. 

(He  turns  to  the  scribe  and  hands  him  the  scroll.) 

Inscribe  this  in  our  book  of  chronicles. 

"This  Mordecai,  who  giveth  life  to  kings, 

I  shall  delight  to  honour."     Put  it  down, 

"That  King  Ahasuerus  was  by  him. 

Saved  from  two  serpents."     He  will  find,  the  King 

Of  all  the  World  knows  how  to  recompense. 

(He  turns  to  Esther  and  leads  her  doivn  from  the 
dais.) 

Come,  my  star,  Shaashgaz  shall  lead  thee  with  thy 

womenkind. 
To  the  apartments  set  aside  for  thee. 
Thy  royal  robes  await  thee.     Now  farewell, 
Until  our  wedding  feast.     Each  hour  will  seem 
A  year,  a  century,  until  I  hold 
Thee  in  my  arms,  my  queen. 

('Shaashgaz  precedes  her  with  slaves,  followed  by 


THE  STAR  IN  THE  EAST  37 

NiCASo  a7id  another  handmaid.  Then  the  King 
and  Esther  approach  the  entrance  to  the  pas- 
sagezmy  as  the  curtain  slowly  falls.) 


ACT  III 

Scene  I 

Tzvo  years  have  elapsed.  The  scene  is  laid  in  a 
small  tiring  room  in  the  apartments  of  Queen 
Esther  in  the  palace  at  Shusan.  An  entrance 
at  left  and  at  center  back  to  be  closed  with  cur- 
tains. 

At  the  rise  of  the  curtain  the  queen  is  seen  re- 
clining on  a  divan  while  two  or  three  female 
slaves  or  handmaidens  are  adorning  her.  One 
combs  her  long  hair  and  entwines  it  with  jew- 
elled chains.  One  tints  her  fingernails  with 
henna.  One  anoints  her  feet  with  perfumed 
ointment  and  then  puts  on  her  sandals. 

She  is  dressed  in  a  rose-colored  robe  of  soft, 
heavy  silk  and  holds  a  metal  mirror  in  her  hand. 
At  her  right  near  the  head  of  the  couch  is  a  low 
stand  whereon  are  apples  in  a  dish  and  a  dish 
of  sweetmeats.  A  flagon  of  wine  also  stands 
there,  with  a  golden  goblet.  She  sips  this  from 
time  to  time. 

Esther: 
I'll  wear  my  pearls  to-day.    Their  rainbow  tints 
And  shy  soft  gleam  suit  well  my  present  mood. 
Emeralds  and  rubies,  those  bright  gems  whose  sparks 

38 


THE  STAR  IN  THE  EAST  39 

Incite  and  charm,  I'll  don  whene'er  the  king 
Pleases  to  send  for  me. 

(Holds  up  a  string  of  pearls.) 

Strange  swelling  beauties! 
Brought  forth  in  agony  to  hide  the  pain 
Within  a  narrow  shell.     Thee  will  I  wear 
To  show  my  heart  doth  languish  for  its  lord. 

f  NiCASO  enters  with  a  large  tray  bearing  many  pots 
and  bundles  and  boxes  of  herbs  and  ointments.) 

What  hast  thou  there? 

NiCASo : 
O  queen,  a  dusky  merchant  of  the  Ind, 
Here  offers  ambergris,  and  camphire  leaves. 
Spikenard  and  saffron,  myrrh  and  cinnamon. 
Aloes,  frankincense,  and  the  oils  of  rose 
And  jasmine  flowers.    Here's  calamus, 
And  unguent  made  in  secret,  which  he  swears 
Will  keep  the  flesh  like  roses  steeped  in  musk. 
What  shall  I  buy? 

Esther : 

I  know  not  which  to  choose. 
Spices  and  herbs  do  always  tempt  my  purse. 
Q — let  me  have  them  all !    Doth  he  bring  silks 
Or  stuff  of  camel's  hair? 

NiCASo: 

No.  O  queen. 
This   Indian  brings  but  wares  as   thou  seest  here. 

(She  puts  dozvn  her  tray  and  gases  admiringly  at  the 
Queen. J 

How  very  fair  thou  art  to-day,  my  Esther! 
Hath  the  king  sent  for  thee  to  come  to  him 


40  THE  STAR  IN  THE  EAST 

After  these  many  days? 

Esther: 

Alas !     Not  yet. 
Full  thirty  weary  days  have  dawned  and  died 
Since  I  have  seen  my  lord. 

NiCASo: 

It  hath  been  longer 
Many  times  before. 

Esther  : 

Ay,  when  he  journeyed. 
Or  was  at  the  wars. 

NiCASo: 

The  rumor  goes 
Lord  Haman  hath  been  much  with  him  of  late. 

Esther: 
I  fear  that  man.    What  news  of  Mordecai? 

NiCASO : 
All  yesterday  he  stood  outside  the  gate 
That's  called  the  king's  in  sackcloth  and  in  shame, 
As  he  hath  stood  for  many  days  before. 

Esther  : 
But  what  of  Hegai  ?    By  him  I  sent 
Fine  raiment  to  my  father,  and  a  chain 
Of  purest  gold. 

NiCASo : 

He  would  none  of  it 
And  sent  it  back. 

Esther  : 

His  actions  grieve  me  sore. 
What  sorrow  hath  befallen  that  he  should  weep 
And  wail  these  many  days  outside  the  gate? 

^Esther  sighs  and  Nicaso  approaches  her  timidly.) 

NicASo: 
O  mistress  mine,  wouldst  read  again  the  psalms 


THE  STAR  IN  THE  EAST  41 

Which  oft  of  old  broug-ht  comfort  when  thy  heart 
Was  weighed  with  grief  ? 
Esther  : 

Thanks,  my  Nicaso. 
Many  moons  have  waned  since  I  have  read 
King  David's  hymns.     I  fear  I  had  forgot 
A  Persian  queen  needs  the  same  counsel 
As  a  Jewish  maid.    Find  me  the  book.    But  first 
Finish  thy  business  with  this  Indian. 

^Esther  indicates  the  tray.     Enter  a  Slave. J 

Slave.  Hegai  begs  leave  to  have  speech  with  the 
queen. 

Esther.  Bid  Hegai  enter,  (To  NiCASo.j  Come 
not  till  I  call. 

(Exit  the  Slave  and  Nicaso.  In  a  moment  Hegai 
enters,  back  center.  Nicaso  goes  out  at  left. 
Hegai  prostrates  himself  as  did  the  Slave  on 
entering  her  presence.) 

Esther  : 
Arise,  and  tell  thy  business.     What  news 
Of  Mordecai?    Why  hath  he  refused  my  gift? 

Hegai  : 
O  queen,  I  come  from  Mordecai  direct 
To  thee.     He  will  have  speech  with  thee. 

Esther : 
It  is  impossible.     Thou  knowest  no  man 
Save  thou,  may  enter  here,  except  the  king 
Himself.    He's  surely  mad  ! 

Hegai  : 
He  doth  insist.    He  says  that  life  and  death 
Depend  upon  this  interview. 


42  THE  STAR  IN  THE  EAST 

Esther : 

It  might  be  death  for  all  if  he  should  come! 
Can  he  not  write? 
Hegai  : 

O  queen,  thou  hast  his  message. 
If  thou  wilt,  it  can  be  done.     He  waits  without 
Wrapped  in  a  heavy  cloak  as  any  eunuch. 
Let  no  handmaiden  or  no  slave  come  in 
Then  is  the  danger  small. 

(A  pause  as  Esther  hesitates.) 

It  is  thy  father's  will.     Is  it  thine,  too? 

Esther.  (After  a  moment's  hesitation)  His  will 
should  still  be  mine.     Bid  him  come  in. 

(She  snatches  up  a  heavy  veil  and  covers  her  face 
with  it.  Hegai  exits  and  a  moment  later  Mor- 
decai  wrapped  in  a  heavy  cloak  zvhich  com- 
pletely envelopes  him,  enters.  He  comes  in  with 
a  stately  stride.  As  the  curtain  closes  behind 
him  he  lets  fall  his  cloak  and  stands  clad  only 
in  a  garment  of  sackcloth  tied  around  the  waist 
with  a  hempen  cord.  Esther  draws  back  in 
dismay  at  sight  of  his  costume.  He  stands  with 
folded  arms  looking  at  her.) 

Mordecat.  Peace  to  thee,  Hadassah,  and  all  this 
house ! 

Esther.  (Murmurs  automatically)  And  to  thee, 
Father,  and  to  all  thy  race ! 

MoRDECAi.  Take  oft  thy  veil.  I'd  see  my  daugh- 
ter's face. 

(She  slowly  removes  the  veil,  then  she  comes  towards 
him  with  outstretched  arms,  but  he  does  not  un- 


THE  STAR  IN  THE  EAST  43 

fold  his  arms,  and  she  stands  before  hint,  her 
face  expressing  dismay  and  astonishment.  In 
his  presence  it  seems  as  though  the  Queen  of 
Persia  had  once  more  become  only  the  Jewish 
maiden.) 

Thou  startst  back  at  my  garb ;  and  yesterday 
Thou  send'st  me  rich  apparel.     Wouldst  thou  heal 
A  sore  by  covering  it  up  ? 

Esther: 

What  is  thy  sore? 
Why  art  thou  angry,  Father? 
I  sought  to  cover  up  thy  nakedness : 
Say,  why  was  that  displeasing  in  thy  sight? 

MORDECAI  : 
Thou  sittest  in" the  palace  of  the  king; 
On  silken  cushions  stuffed  with  softest  down; 
Thy  ears  are  filled  with  music  such  as  steals 
Away  all  thought  and  care ;  perfumes  are  in 
Thy  nostrils,  and  thy  flesh  anointed 
With  sweet  oils  is  wrapped  in  silk  and  linen 
Fine  as  the  web  of  spiders. 
For  this  was  Esther  brought  into  the  world  ? 
Thinkst  thou  that  this  is  life?     Then  think  again! 
Hast  thou  forgot  thyself,  thy  kin,  thy  race . 
Hast  thou  forgot  thy  God,  my  Hadassah? 
Even  as  thou  sittest,  death  knocketh  at  thy  door. 

Esther: 
Thy  words  are  riddles,  Mordecai.    Are  comforts  then 
So  deadly  ? 

Mordecai  : 
Ay,  when  they  stuff  the  ears  'gainst  duty's  call. 

Esther  : 
What  should  I  do  that  I  have  left  undone? 

Mordecai  : 
Dost  thou  not  know  that  even  at  this  hour 


44  THE  STAR  IN  THE  EAST 

Hainan  is  closeted  with  thy  lord,  the  king, 
Plotting  thy  death  and  that  of  all  thy  race? 
Ah,  now  thou  start'st,  yet  I  have  hut  hegun. 
As  day  hy  day  this  Haman's  power  hath  grown 
So  day  by  day  hath  grown  his  wrath  and  hate 
Against  thy  father  and  against  our  race. 
I  would  not  crook  my  knee  to  win  his  grace. 
I  would  not  bow  my  head  to  such  as  he — 
An  Amalekite,  a  base-born  heathen  cur — 
Though  he  should  sit  upon  the  very  throne 
Of  the  king's  self.     So  hath  he  sworn  revenge. 
'Tis  now  ten  moons  since  he  beguiled  the  king 
To  sign  an  edict  which  will  put  to  death 
All  Jews  within  his  realm.     Women  and  babes, 
Old  men  and  gallant  youths,  all  to  be  harvested 
By  cruel  swords ;  and  for  this  he 
Will  pay  a  mighty  sum,  ten  thousand  talents, 
Into  the  treasury,  so  goes  the  tale. 

Esther.     (White  and  aghast)    When  is  this  hor- 
rid, horrid  doom  to  fall? 

MORDECAI  : 

Men  came  to  him,  the  priests  of  Mazdao, 
And  cast  the  Pur  or  lot,  so  he  might  fix 
A  time  auspicious  for  his  fiendish  work ; 
It  fell  on  the  twelfth  month,  the  thirteenth  day. 
Esther.     Ten  days  from  now ! 

MORDECAI : 

Thou  sayst  it.     Hence  thou  seest 
The  time  is  short.     On  thee  the  burden  falls. 
Thou  art  the  star  must  lead  us  through  this  night ! 
This  remnant  of  a  people  must  be  saved ! 
I  named  thee,  Esther — star — but  for  this  hour ; 
Dost  thou  recall  my  dream  ?    A  star  rose  up 
Out  of  this  east,  and  moving  westward  stopped 
Above  Jerusalem ;  there  did  it  rest 
Until  Messiah  came.     This  remnant  must 


THE  STAR  IN  THE  EAST  45 

Be  saved  until  he  comes.    Immanuel, 

Who  shall  redeem  the  world !    It  is  thy  task, 

My  daughter. 

Esther : 
Gladly  will  I  try.    Ahasuerus 
Hath  not  sent  for  me  these  thirty  days ; 
Perchance  this  very  hour  cometh  his  summons. 
Then  will  I  intercede  for  my  poor  race. 
I  wait  his  message. 

MORDECAI  : 

Wait !    Thou  wouldst  wait, 
When  every  moment  lost  but  seals  our  doom 
More  surely? 

Wait!  for  the  pleasure  of  this  Persian  king? 
Go!  walk  about  the  streets  of  Shusan!     Hear 
The  weeping  and  the  wailing  of  the  Jews ! 
Then  wait  if  still  thou  canst! 

Esther  : 
But  Mordecai,  my  kinsman,  thou  knowest  well. 
Who  goes  unbidden  to  our  mighty  king 
May  lose  his  life.    Unless  the  king  extends 
His  golden  wand,  even  a  queen's  head  falls. 
I  saw  the  head  of  a  prince  royal  drop 
Beneath  the  axe,  for  such  presumption. 

Mordecai  : 
Wouldst  rather  hear  the  death  cries  of  the  babes 
Ring  in  thine  ears  when  thou  wouldst  sleep  at  night. 
Than  take  such  risk  ?    Many,  like  me,  are  old, 
Their  sands  are  run,  but  youth 

Esther  : 

Father ! 
They  dare  not  kill  thee!     Thou  art  my  kinsman! 
Kinsman  of  the  queen  ! 

Mordecai  : 
Who  knows  I  am  thy  kinsman  ?    And  besides 
Thou,  too,  art  of  our  race.     All  Jews 


46  THE  STAR  IN  THE  EAST 

The  (Hlict  runs ;  and  under  it  thy  Hfe 
Is  forfeit.     As  for  me,  I  will  be  first 
To  fall  before  the  wrath  of  the  Amalekite. 

Esther.  (Sits  horror-stricken  before  him)  O, 
woe  is  me;  where  shall  I  look  for  help? 

MORDECAI  : 

Our  help  is  in  the  Lord's  name,  in  our  God. 

Hast  thou  forgot  thy  psalms?    "Yea,  though  I  walk 

Through  the  valley  of  the  shadow  of  death 

I  fear  no  evil,  for  Thou  art  with  me." 

Go  to  the  king,  thy  Lord ;  for  this  thing  wast 

Thou  born.     Not  to  lie  down 

In  ivory  palaces  like  heathen  queens 

But  like  a  royal  daughter  of  the  Jews 

To  face  even  death,  if  need  be,  for  our  race ; 

To  go  forth  in  the  Lord's  name  without  fear 

To  save  his  people  Israel ! 

Esther.  (Sitting  with  clasped  hands  in  an  agony 
of  spirit.  She  suddenly  rises  and  stretches  out  her 
hands  in  prayer) 

"Save  me,  O  God,  for  the  waters 
Are  come  into  my  soul.     I  sink  in  deep  mire 
Where  there  is  no  standing.     I  am  come 
Into  deep  waters  where  the  floods  o'erflow  me. 
Hide  not  thy  face  from  thy  servant 
For  I  am  in  trouble." 

MoRDECAI  : 
Amen.    Go  now,  my  Esther,  to  this  king; 
Go,  in  the  name  of  thy  race,  which  worships 
The  true  God !     Go  in  thy  kinsfolks'  name, 
To  whom  thou  ow'st  allegiance !    Go  in 
The  name  of  friends  whose  lives  hang  on  thy  words ! 
Go,  in  Jehovah's  name,  who  hath  made  thee 
For  this  hour ! 

Esther  : 

Father,  thy  will  be  done. 


THE  STAR  IN  THE  EAST  47 

Pray  for  me.    Keep  the  fast.    Let  all  the  Jews 
Abstain  from  meat  three  days.     Send  out  the  word. 
I  go  unbidden  to  my  lord,  the  king ; 
I  perish,  if  I  perish,  for  their  sakes. 

MORDECAI  : 

This  will  we  do.    Use  all  thy  woman's  wiles, 
Thy  native  wit,  to  circumvent  this  man. 
Now  fare  thee  well.    He  will  not  slumber 
That  keepeth  thee ;  he  that  keepeth  Israel 
Shall  neither  slumber  nor  sleep.     The  Lord 
Bless  thee  and  prosper  thee ! 

(Esther  bows  her  head  as  Mordecai  blesses  her, 
then  gathering  up  his  cloak  he  wraps  himself  in 
it  and  swiftly  exits.  For  a  moment  Esther  re- 
mains as  though  stunned,  then  she  straightens 
her  shoulders  as  though  for  a  burden  and  claps 
her  hands.     Nicaso  enters.) 

Esther  : 
Fetch  me  my  richest  robes.    I'll  wear  my  cloak 
Of  blue  and  green,  shot  with  the  gold  of  Ophir. 
Drench  me  with  roses ;  hang  rich  sapphires 
On  my  neck,  and  in  my  hair ;  bring  me 
My  finest  veils,  my  golden  crown ;  make  me 
As  lovely  as  the  rosy  morn  when  first 
It  breaks  above  the  mountain  peaks 
Of  high  Orontes. 

Nicaso.     The  king  hath  sent  for  thee? 

Esther.     No.  Anna,  yet  I  go  unto  the  king. 

Nicaso.     (Aghast)     Esther!     My  queen!     'Tis 
death  to  which  you  go! 

Esther  : 
T  know,  but  I  must  go  to  save  the  Jews. 
Oh,  people,  that  I  have  so  long  forgot 
Amidst  this  palace's  sensual  delights ! 


48  THE  STAR  IN  THE  EAST 

My  people,  exiled,  poor,  despised,  forsaken! 

How  could  I  have  forgotten  thee  so  long? 

I'll  save  thee,  or  I'll  perish  for  thy  sake. 

Like  Isaac  at  my  father's  call,  I  go 

To  oflfer  up  my  life  a  sacrifice. 

God  grant  it  may  be  pleasing  in  Thy  sight! 

(As  the  })uiidcns  conic  in  xvith  the  royal  robes,  the 
curtain  falls.) 

Scene  II 

In  the  throne  room  of  the  palace.  It  is  a  magnificent 
apartment  of  marble,  the  roof  supported  by  pil- 
lars. The  pavement  is  of  red,  yellow  and  black 
marble.  Hangings  of  silk  of  green  and  blue  and 
white  are  fastened  with  cords  to  rings  of  silver. 
The  high  throne  of  ivory  and  gold  stands  on  a 
dais  near  the  front.  It  is  zvide  and  high  and 
above  it  are  draperies  of  cloth  of  gold.  On 
either  side  of  it  are  smaller  seats,  and  in  front 
of  one  is  a  little  tabouret  or  stool.  On  it  rest 
scrolls.  On  the  seat  near  this  stool  Haman  is 
sitting  at  the  rise  of  the  curtain.  He  is  holding 
one  of  the  scrolls  which  is  evidently  a  map  and 
explaining  about  it  to  the  King.  The  King, 
dressed  in  his  richest  robes,  leans  back  on  his 
throne  and  listens  indulgently  to  Haman  as  to 
a  favorite. 

About  the  room  are  couches  of  gold  and  sil- 
ver, and  on  these  are  sitting  chamberlains  and 
other  members  of  the  court,  among  whom  are 
Hegai.  Shaasiigaz  and  Harbonaii.  On  either 
side  of  the  throne  stand  tzvo  huge  blacks  armed 
with  glittering  axes.    Others  guard  the  door.    A 


THE  STAR  IN  THE  EAST  49 

company  of  the  King's  bodyguard  of  archers  is 
ranged  near  the  back  of  the  room. 

In  the  back  center  is  a  great  doorway  from 
which  the  curtain  is  partly  draped  back.  Be- 
neath this  o,ie  may  catch  a  glimpse  of  the  pal- 
ace gardens  lying  in  the  moonlight. 

On  the  left  is  a  doorzvay  also  curtained  but 
closed  leading  to  the  apartments  of  the  palace. 
Flambeaux  light  the  room  from  tall  candlesticks. 
In  a  brasier,  high  and  very  ornate,  burns  a 
sacred  fire  in  zvhich  Slaves  drop  incense  from 
time  to  time.  Wine  in  gold  and  silver  flagons 
is  being  passed  by  the  Slaves, 

It  is  a  scene  of  oriental  splendor  and  ease, 
marked  by  a  certain  restraint  which  ahvays  ac- 
companies the  presence  of  the  King.  To  the 
right  and  a  little  behind  the  dais  is  the  table  of 
the  scribe  as  in  the  second  act.  He  sits  there  as 
before. 

As  the  curtain  rises  Ahasuerus  and  Haman 
are  in  earnest  conversation.     More  earnest  on 
Haman's  part  than  the  King's,  zvho  seems  only 
mildly  interested. 
Haman.     (Shotting  scroll) 

Thou  seest  here 
How   they   extend   through  all   thy  kingdom,   lord. 

King: 
These  lawless  and  unruly  people  are 
In  all  my  provinces  it  seemeth,  Haman. 

Haman : 
In  all,  O  king.    And  so  they  disaffect 
Thy  empire.     They  keep  no  laws  of  life  save 
Only  theirs  ;  they  flout  Ahuramazda. 

(Here  he  makes  a  slight  obeisance  towards  the  braz- 
ier wherein  burns  the  sacred  fire.) 


50  THE  STAR  IN  THE  EAST 

They  will  worship  but  this  Jehovah,  God 

Of  Israel,  so  do  they  name  Him. 

As  I  explained  when  first  thou  madest  the  edict, 

It  is  not  to  the  profit  of  the  king 

To  suffer  them  to  live.     So  went  I  to 

The  temple,  and  our  priests  before  me  cast 

The  Pur,  the  lot,  to  say  which  day  should  be 

Their  last.    Ten  days  from  now 

Is  the  appointed  time ;  then  shall  they  perish ; 

Every  Jewish  soul  shall  be  cut  off,  from 

Babes  to  hoary  men ;  when  the  sun  rises 

On  the  fourteenth  day  of  Adar,  not  a  Jew 

Shall  see  his  light! 

King: 

Haman,  it 
Irks  me  thus  to  cut  off  babes  and  women — 
I  can  kill  in  lust  of  battle  as  a 
Soldier  should — but  maids  and  children — 
Is  it  expedient  thus  to  deal  with  them? 

Haman : 
Children  who  live  after  their  sire  is  killed, 
Wax  stronger  on  their  hate ;  besides 
Thy  priests  have  spoken. 

King: 

Yes,  I  know. 
Well,  let  it  stand.    Thou  sayest  'twill  bring  much  gold 
Into  our  royal  vaults  ? 

Haman : 
Ten  thousand  talents  at  the  very  least ! 
These  people,  though  they  seem  in  poverty, 
Have  yet  great  riches  hidden  in  every  house 
In  which  they  dwell. 

King: 

And  do  they  murmur 
'Gainst  our  sacred  person? 


THE  STAR  IN  THE  EAST  51 

Haman : 

They  flout  thee 
In  the  persons  of  thy  friends,  those  thou 
Art  pleased  to  favour ;  yesterday 
As  I  rode  by  the  gate,  one  stood  without 
And  would  not  do  me  homage.    All  the  throng 
Fell  down  before  me  as  a  prince  of  thine 
Save  only  he.    Erect  he  stood,  and  flung 
A  glance  of  scorn  at  me,  thy  servant, 
Envoy  of  the  king!    The  people  murmured 
Saying,  "Why  should  we  fall  prostrate 
When  this  man  is  suffered  to  remain 
Upright,  and  unrebuked?"     Sedition  starts 
From  such  small  seeds. 

King.     (After  a  moment's  thought) 
Thou  speakest  truth.    Do  even  as  thou  hast  planned. 

(At  this  mom,ent  the  curtain  is  raised  at  the  left,  and 
Esther  in  her  royal  robes  appears  in  the  door- 
way. Her  train  is  home  by  Slaves  and  she  is 
supported  on  either  side  by  two  handmaidens, 
one  of  whom  is  Nicaso.  Her  face  is  covered 
with  a  veil  which  covers  her  also  from  head  to 
foot.  She  approaches  the  throne  slowly  and 
timidly.  The  King  watches  in  displeasure,  and 
the  two  Slaves  with  axes,  who  stand  on  either 
side  the  throne,  step  forward  at  a  sign  from  him 
prepared  to  strike.) 

Who  is  this?    Who  dares  to  come  unbidden 
To  the  king? 

^Esther  throws  back  her  veil  and  stands  at  the  foot 
of  the  dais  gazing  up  into  the  King's  face.  As 
the  axe-men  step  nearer  she  sinks  in  a  heap  at 
the  foot  of  the  throne.    Instantly  the  King  holds 


52  THE  STAR  IN  THE  EAST 

forth  his  sceptre  and  leaping  to  his  feet  hastens 
to  gather  the  Queen  in  Jiis  arms,  and  seating  her 
beside  him  on  the  throne  he  puts  the  sceptre  into 
her  hands.) 

My  queen  !    My  star !    Wert  thou  in  fear 
To  come  unbidden  to  our  sacred  throne? 
Fear  not !    The  law  of  death  for  such  as  dared 
Was  for  our  subjects,  not  for  our  own  self, 
Which  well  thou  know'st  thou  art. 
Take  thou  the  sceptre!    Rule  thou  in  our  stead! 
Why  didst  thou  swoon  ?    Hast  thou  recovered  quite? 
My  heart  stopped  beating  when  I  saw  thee  fall ! 

Esther : 
My  lord,  it  is  not  easy  to  say  why 
I  fell  before  thee.     But  when  I  came 
And  saw  thee  sitting-  on  this  golden  seat 
In  all  thy  power,  thy  greatness,  and  thy  might, 
My  spirit  failed ;  my  senses  and  my  soul 
Seemed  to  depart.     A  long,  slow  moon  I've  sat 
In  darkness ;  and  my  eyes  were  blinded 
When  I  came  into  the  sun. 

King: 

I  was  on  the  point 
To  come  to  thee.     It  is  a  century 
Since  I  have  felt  thy  beauty  like  a  flood 
Pour  o'er  my  spirit. 

Affairs  of  state  have  kept  me  from  thy  side ; 
Night  after  night  the  dawn  has  found  me  still 
In  council  over  matters  of  my  realm. 
I  would  requite  thee  for  thy  presence  here ; 
Ask  me  a  boon  that  I  may  give  it  thee, 
Even  to  the  half  of  all  my  mighty  land: 
Wouldst  have  a  city?     Great  Persepolis? 
Ecbatana  ?    Palmyra  ?    They  are  thine ! 
Or  I  will  send  to  India  and  bring 


THE  STAR  IN  THE  EAST  53 

A  ruby  for  thee  bigger  than  an  egg. 
Which  shall  it  be? 

Esther: 

Oh,  King, 
My  gracious  lord,  live  thou  an  hundred  years, 
And  when  these  pass,  another  hundred,  e'en 
Forever,  Lord!    One  favour  would  I  ask, 
Of  thy  beneficence. 

King  : 

'Tis  thine  before 
The  words  fall  on  mine  ears. 

Esther  : 

I  pray  that  thou 
And  this  great  lord,  high  Haman  as  he  stands 
Beside  thy  royal  throne,  would  come  when  the 
Round  sun  hath  set  for  the  third  time,  and  share 
With  me  a  banquet  I'll  prepare. 
I  beg  thou'lt  so  far  honour  me,  my  lord  ? 

King: 
What  sayest,  Haman?    Will  the  days  not  seem 
A  thousand  years  until  we  share 
This  banquet  with  our  queen  ? 

Haman.     (Bowhig  lozv) 
Most  sovereign  lady !     Thy  servant  hath  been 
Honoured  far  beyond  his  high  deserving. 
Until  three  days,  I  shall  have  but  one  thought 
To  bid  me  live — that  I'm  to  banquet 
With  my  king  and  queen ! 

(He  makes  a  low  obeisance  to  them  both,  then  turns 
TO  the  King.; 

May  I  depart  a  moment 

From  thy  sight?     I  would  give  last  instructions 
Concerning  that  grave  matter  and  the  plans 
Of  which  we  spoke. 


54  THE  STAR  IN  THE  EAST 

King.     (Graciously) 

But  for  a  moment; 
For  the  candles  dim  in  this  bright  court 
When  they  reflect  no  more  the  light  of  Haman's 
presence. 

(Again  Haman  bows  low  and  exits,  by  the  door 
through  7i'hich  the  Queen  entered.  The  King 
turtis  again  to  Esther. j 

Each  time  I  greet  thee  after  many  days, 
I  do  recall  the  time  I  saw  thee  first, 
When  thy  fresh  beauty  struck  upon  my  heart, 
Blinding  my  eyes  to  all  else  in  the  world ! 

(He  turns  to  the  scribe  seated  behind  the  throne.) 

Read  me  again  the  record  made  that  night ; 

I  do  recall  it  dimly.    (To  Queen. J    Wilt  thou  hear? 

Esther.     Thy  will  is  mine. 

King.     Read,  slave! 

Scribe  : 
"On  this  night  Ahasuerus  hath  been  saved 
From  the  dread  bite  of  two  fierce  serpents, 
By  the  Jew,  Mordecai ;  him  would  our  king 
Delight  to  honour." 

King.     (Interrupting) 

Ah,  now  I  remember! 
And  how  did  I  reward  this  Mordecai? 

Scribe.     There  is  no  record,  Lord. 

King: 

What  ? 
No  honour  hath  been  paid  to  such  a  man  ? 

(Enter  Haman.  He  approaches  the  throne  and  the 
King  extends  his  sceptre  as  he  prostrates  him- 
self.) 


THE  STAR  IN  THE  EAST  55 

Arise,  O  Haman,  I  would  have  thine  ear. 
Thou  art  the  man  of  all  the  world,  whose 
Counsel  I  desire.     Because  thou  art  my  friend. 
Sincere,  and  true,  I  ask  for  thy  advice. 
How  shall  I  honour  one  whom  I  love  greatly ; 
Whom  I  would  reward  after  the  manner 
And  in  such  a  wise  as  doth  agree 
With  my  magnificence? 

^Haman  stands  silent  for  a  moment.  He  is  evi- 
dently under  the  impression  that  the  King  is 
speaking  of  him.) 

Speak  freely, 
From  thy  heart. 
I  feel  no  honour  is  too  great  for  him ! 

Haman.     (Smiling  in  self-satisfaction) 
\i  that  be  so,  O  king,  thus  would  I  do 
And  I  were  in  thy  stead. 
Say  to  the  noblest  prince  within  thy  court, 
"Go  to  this  man ;  wrap  him  in  royal  robes, 
Even  such  robes  as  wears  the  king  himself, 
Purple,  and  linen,  and  a  chain  of  gold 
About  his  neck.     Let  this  same  noble 
Lead  this  man  before  the  king  and  make 
Obeisance  very  low  before  the  throne ; 
But  let  this  man  stand  upright  as  though  equal 
Even  with  Ahasuerus.     Then  let  this  prince 
Place  him  upon  the  king's  most  favorite  horse, 
Upon  whose  head  the  royal  crown  is  set, 
And  lead  him  through  the  city's  crowded  streets, 
Crying  aloud,  "This  is  the  man,  our  king 
Doth  most  delight  to  honour  with  his  love!" 
So  shall  the  people  know  the  recompense 
Thou  metest  out  to  him  who  wins  thy  favour. 

King: 


56  TH1-.  STAR   1\    rill-    lASr 

Thou  sayest  well.     Go.     Do  a>;  thou  hast  said! 
CfCt  Mordocai.  the  Jew.    Clothe  him  iti  robes 
Such  as  our  owu.     Briiiqf  hitu  botore  our  face. 
He  shall  standi  uprig^ht  wbeti  thou  bow'st  thyself. 
Then  efo  l>etore  his  horse  ami  make  the  cry 
Even  as  thou  hast  spoken.     For  thou 
Art  ever  my  true  friend,  and  thy  advice 
Is  g^od. 

(Crt'stfaUt'n.  H.\m.\n  tnakrs  a  f^rofottnd  obi'isanci' 
bcfoft'  the  throtu\  and  tjot's  sloicly  i'<ttt.  Tk*' 
Queen  is  radiattt  :cith  Jclioht.  She  knct'ls  be- 
fore the  King  (J>I(/  hisses  his  hand.) 

Esther: 

Great  art  thou,  my  Lord! 
Thy  benefits  are  ever  just  and  ri5::ht ! 

King: 
justice  should  ever  sit  beside  a  kinq:. 
it  is  her  place.     No  thanks  are  due  for  that. 
'Tis  mercy  that  should  bring  forth  gratitude. 
• 
(Looks  at  her  aJtuirifujly.) 

O  queen,  thou  art  as  lovely  as  the  rose 
That  blooms  at  dawn.    Thy  beauty  jjrcets  me 
.\s  the  sun  at  morn,  reneweil  in  splemlor 
By  his  nis:^ht  of  rest.    Dost  ever  love  me? 

Esther: 

T,ord.  thou  knowest   well. 
My  heart  is  over  thine,  both  now  and  always! 

K 1 N  G  : 
Thine  eyes  are  pools  of  truth.     Thou  art  my  love! 

(He  turns  to  the  Scribe.^ 


THE  STAR  IN  THE  EAS'i  57 

Till  Haman  comes  again,  read  to  us  more 

About  the  early  days  of  this  our  reign. 
Scribe.  So  be  it.  Lord.  (Reads.) 
"And  it  came  to  pass  in  the  days  when  King 
Ahasuerus  came  to  the  throne,  he  ruled  over  a 
great  kingdom,  even  all  the  world,  to  Ethiopia 
and  the  Indies.  And  he  set  governors  over  the 
hundred  and  twenty-seven  provinces  in  the  third 
year  of  his  reign,  and  there  was  great  rejoicing. 
And  it  came  to  pass  at  that  time  that  he  made  a 
costly  feast  for  his  friends,  and  for  the  nations 
of  Persia,  and  for  their  governors,  such  as  was 
proper  for  the  king  to  make.  After  which  he 
made  a  feast  for  other  nations  and  for  their 
ambassadors  at  Shusan.  Moreover  he  sent  mes- 
sengers through  the  country  and  gave  orders 
that  they  should  have  a  remission  of  their  la- 
bours, and  should  keep  festival  many  days  on 
account  of  his  kingdom." 

(The  King  holds  up  his  hand  as  a  sign  for  the 
Scribe  to  cease  reading.) 
King: 

A  worthy  chronicle 
That  doth  mind  me  of  one  who  once  was  proud, 
So  proud,  she  braved  the  order  of  her  Lord, 
And  even  plotted  'gainst  his  royal  life. 

(He  pauses  and  muses  a  moment.) 

O  queen,  thou  hast  among  thy  slaves 
A  certain  one  named  Vashti.     For  a  jest, 
That  she  may  see  with  her  own  envious  eyes 
And  hear  with  her  proud  ears,  how  all  her  plots 
Are  brought  to  naught,  bid  her  to  wait  upon  us 
At  the  feast,  thou  purposeth  to  serve  us 


58  THE  STAR  IN  THE  EAST 

Three  days  hence,  thy  Lord  and  Haman. 

Esther: 
If  't  be  thy  pleasure,  Lord,  it  shall  be  done, 
But  much  I  dread  to  have  her  brought  so  near 
Thy  royal  person.     Her  eyes  are  basilisks; 
Venom  is  in  her  mouth,  I  fear,  O  king, 
Such  hatred  as  she  bears  may  work  thee  ill. 
I  do  beseech  thee  let  her  not  approach ! 
She  radiateth  evil  as  the  pestilence 
Which  stalks  abroad  unseen. 

King.     (Laughing) 
Fear  not,  my  queen,  I  would  but  tease  a  snake 
Whose  fangs  are  drawn.     There's  naught  to  fear. 
She  is  a  guarded  slave.     Think  of  her  crime! 
The  punishment  is  just 
And  shall  be  meted  out  as  I  have  said. 
I  do  decree  that  Vashti  drink  the  dregs 
Of  bitterness  and  shame. 

Esther.     (Sadly  boimng  her  head)    Vashti  shall 
serve  us  at  the  feast  O  king. 

(At  this  moment  the  curtain  is  drawn  aside  and  Ha- 
man enters,  foUozved  by  Mordecai  in  royal 
robes.  The  King  extends  his  sceptre  and  they 
advance  to  the  foot  of  the  dais.  Haman  pros- 
trates himself,  and  Mordecai  is  about  to  bow 
low  when  the  King  stops  him.) 

King: 

Nay,  Mordecai,  thou  com'st  here  as  my  peer. 
He  who  gives  kings  their  lives  need  bow  to  no  man. 
I  here  demand  thy  pardon,  that  I  left 
Thy  Godlike  gift  remain  unrecompensed 
These  many  months. 
Mordecai  : 

O,  great  king,  live  forever  ;    Not  to  me 


THE  STAR  IN  THE  EAST  59 

Owest  thou  thanks  or  recompense. 

The  one  God  gave  thee  life;  he  holds  it  still 

Within  the  hollow  of  his  holy  hands. 

He  did  preserve  it  when  those  naughty  men 

Would  vilely  cut  it  off. 

I  was  His  humble  instrument  of  grace. 

He  led  my  feet  where  I  might  hear  their  plans ; 

He  brought  the  words  to  my  swift,  Hstening  ears ; 

He  told  my  heart  how  I  might  bring  to  thee 

Their  fell  design.     To  Him 

The  glory  be  throughout  all  generations! 

I  praise  the  God  of  Abraham,  the  God 

Of  Isaac,  and  of  Israel !     His  name  is  Jah ! 

(He  falls  on  his  face  prostrate  as  he  says  the  last 
words.) 

King: 
Thy  God  must  be  indeed  a  mighty  God 
If  He  can  do  these  things. 
Thinkst  thou  he's  greater  than  Ahuramazda? 

MoRDECAi.     (Rising) 

None, 
Is  like  unto  our  God !    There  is  no  God 
But  Him! 

(There  is  a  movement  of  unrest  throughout  the 
court  and  the  people  turn  their  eyes  to  the  sa- 
cred flame  zvliich  burns  as  before.  Esther 
leans  forivard  zvith  delight  and  eagerness.  The 
King  seems  not  to  join  in  the  general  feeling 
of  consternation  at  the  temerity  of  the  Jew.) 

King: 
I  would  hear  more  of  Him.    When  this  man  (Turn- 
ing to  Haman.J 


6o  THE  STAR  IX  THE  EAST 

Halh  finished  his  high  yiroj^^ress  throup^h  the  streets 

Bring  him  to  lodge  within  the  palace  here. 

I'll  further  talk  with  him  about  this  God 

Who  can  save  kings  and  who  is  like  none  other. 

It  is  a  matter  of  much  interest. 

I  thank  thee,  Haman,  my  most  loyal  friend, 

Who  hath  so  well  advised  me  of  the  way 

To  pay  my  debts. 

Take  Mordecai.  and  lead  him  through  the  streets 

Upon  my  noble  horse  as  thou  hast  said ; 

Worthy  indeed  is  he  of  all  this  honour ! 

('Mordecai  and  Haman  retire  from  the  King's 
presence  after  bowing  again  to  him,  and  the 
King  turns  to  Esther. J 

That  God  which  Zoroaster  taught  us  of 
Hath  failed  me  oft  of  late.    Perchance  this  God 
Of  Israel  of  whom  this  man  doth  prate, 
Hath  yet  more  power.     I'll  learn  of  Him. 

(A  pause  during  which  the  King  sits  musing.  Then 
he  looks  towards  the  open  doorway,  then  back 
at  the  QuEEN.j 

A  silver  moon  rolls  in  a  sapphire  sky. 

The  bulbul's  soul  pours  out  in  liquid  song 

Unto  the  eager  night.     Within  the  shade 

Of  palm  trees,  blooms  the  rose ;  tall  lilies  spill 

Their  waxen  chalices,  to  perfume 

The  night  air.     Come,  my  queen,  into  the  gardens 

On  this  night  of  love. 

So  will  our  senses  swoon  in  ecstasy 

Beneath  such  beauty.     It  will  woo  our  souls 


THE  STAR  IN  THE  EAST  6i 

From  sorry  thoughts  which  fill  the  garish  day. 
Come,  Esther,  love ! 

(They  descend  from  the  throne  and  start  towards 
the  great  doorway  in  the  back  as  the  curtain 
slowly  falls.) 


ACT  IV 

Three  days  have  elapsed. 

The  banquet  hall  in  the  apartments  of  the  Queen. 
It  is  hung  with  purple  and  gold  draped  hack 
with  cords  of  the  same  colors.  In  the  center 
hack  is  a  zvide  doorzvay,  the  curtain  front 
which  is  draped  high.  Through  this  doorway 
the  King,  Queen,  Haman  and  Mordecai  en- 
ter later.  Back  of  the  doorway  is  a  hall  and 
during  the  banquet  a  company  of  the  King's 
bodyguard  of  archers  walk  hack  and  forth.  At 
the  left  closed  by  a  curtain  is  the  door  through 
which  the  Maids  and  Slaves  enter  who  serve 
the  feast. 

In  the  center  of  stage  is  a  low,  long  table. 
Back  of  this  and  almost  level  with  it  are  three 
couches,  the  one  at  the  right  of  the  center  cov- 
ered with  a  cloth  of  royal  purple  on  which  is 
worked  the  crown  and  sceptre.  The  two  oth- 
ers are  covered  with  gold  cloth. 

At  the  left  against  the  zvall  and  in  front  of 
the  left  doorway  is  a  higher  table  on  which  are 
dishes  of  various  kinds,  flagons,  goblets,  etc. 

The  long  table  is  elaborately  decorated  with 
dishes  of  fruit,  apples,  grapes  and  pomegran- 
62 


THE  STAR  IN  THE  EAST  63 

ates.  Flowers  are  also  hi  vases  at  each  end,  hut 
nothing  is  so  high  as  to  at  all  interfere  zvith  the 
view  of  the  audience.  The  couches  are  so  high 
above  the  table  that  the  zvhole  body  of  the  per- 
sons on  the  divans  may  he  seen. 

At  rise  of  curtain,  Nicaso  is  giving  the  final 
touches  to  the  flowers  and  fruit  on  the  table. 
Two  Slaves,  one  of  ivhom  is  Vashti,  are  busy 
pouring  the  zvine  from  large  jars  into  the  flagons, 
and  arranging  the  dishes  on  the  side  table  which 
are  to  be  served  first. 

Nicaso  : 
Is  it  not  beautiful?    I  hope  the  queen 
Will  be  well  pleased.     Those  pomegranates  are  the 

finest 
I  have  seen  since  Adar  last  was  here, 
Twelve  months  ago.    The  slave  was  nearly  drowned 
Who  plucked  those  lotus  flowers,  but  even  so, 
Their  beauty's  worth  the  loss  of  one  mean  slave. 
Is  the  wine  ready?    Forget  not,  the  king- 
Must  taste  that  vintage  from  Armenia 
Which  the  queen  sent  for  at  such  great  expense ! 

Vashti  : 
A  moment  and  all  things  will  have  been  done 
Even  as  thou  hast  bidden.    Now,  I  fill 
The  special  flagon  for  the  king  himself. 

Nicaso  : 
Take  care  it  be  not  over  warm  nor  cold ; 
If  so,  the  flavour's  richness  would  be  lost. 

(Takes  another  look  about  to  assure  herself  that  all 
is  ready.) 

I  go  to  tell  the  queen,  the  banquet's  served. 

(Exits  by  door  center  hack.) 


64  THE  STAR  IN  THE  EAST 

Vashti.     (Looking  after  her  with  hatred) 
They  think  to  break  my  spirit — the  spirit 
Of  haughty  Vashti, 

By  making  me  to  serve  where  once  I  ruled ! 
They  think  me  powerless,  a  plaything 
For  their  hatred,  the  tame  sport  of  their  spleen ; 
An  idle  leaf  to  be  blown  here  and  yon, 
Wliere  once  I  was  the  very  wind  itself 
Whose  softest  breath  did  shake  this  court 
To  its  foundation  stones! 
But  this,  shall  be  the  end ! 

Slave : 
Have  a  care,  Vashti!     If  your  game  should  fail 
Your  life  may  not  be  spared  a  second  time. 

Vashti  : 
Be  silent,  worm!     This  time  there'll  be  no  slip. 
For  I  employ  no  bungling  go-betweens, 
But  do  my  work  myself.     A  pleasant  task 
And  one  I'd  rather  do,  than  reign  in  Persia. 
My  hate  has  grown  so  that  it  must  be  fed 
Before  all  else.    Go !    I  will  finish  this. 

(Indicating  the  service  table  and  the  last  placing  of 
the  flagons.  The  Slave  exits.  Vashti  looks 
fearfully  around,  seeing  no  one  she  draws  from 
her  bosom  a  small  glass  phial.  As  she  does  so 
Nicaso  appears  at  the  center  door.  She  is  about 
to  enter,  then  seeing  Vashti  she  conceals  her- 
self partly  behind  the  curtain  and  watches  her. 
Vashti  empties  the  contents  of  the  phial  in  the 
flagon  containing  the  King's  special  wine.  She 
places  this  on  the  table  near  the  King's  divan. 
Then  she  drops  the  empty  phial  behind  a  huge 
water  vase  tvhich  is  near  the  service  table.  With 
a  smile  of  triumph,  Vashti  exists.  A  moment 
later  Nicaso  rushes  to   the  water  bottle  and 


THE  STAR  IN  THE  EAST  65 

reaching  down  brings  up  the  phial  just  as  the 
royal  party  enters  the  hall.  First  come  the  black 
Slaves,  then  the  Queen  and  the  King  and 
Haman.  These  are  followed  by  a  company  of 
archers  which  remain  without,  while,  Har- 
BONAH,  one  of  the  chamberlains  stands  near  the 
door  so  as  to  be  within  the  King's  call.  Nicaso 
runs  up  to  the  royal  party  and  makes  an  obeis- 
ance before  them.) 

NicAso : 

0  queen !    My  Lord  !    A  fearful  thing !    I  saw 
Vashti,  the  slave,  pour  something  from  this  phial 
Into  the  wine  meant  chiefly  for  the  king. 

Back  of  a  water  jar  she  hid  the  thing, 
Which  I  secured.     'Tis  empty,  but  I  fear 
From  its  rank  odor  that  it  held  some  drug 
Of  deadly  sort.     She  was  alone,  and  is 
Not  yet  aware  that  any  saw  her  act. 

1  beg  thee  all,  by  the  great  love  I  bear 

To  taste  no  wine  which  Vashti  hath  prepared. 

Queen.     (In  great  concern) 
My  king,  my  Lord,  what  fearful  thing  is  this! 
Wait  but  a  moment.     I  will  have  this  wine 
Drawn  ofif,  the  ^agons  cleansed,  fresh  wine  prepared, 
And  Vashti  placed  where  she  can  do  no  harm. 

King: 
Not  yet,  my  Esther,  fear  not.     I  shall  know 
How  best  to  act.    (To  Nicaso  J    Weep  not,  hand- 
maiden. 
Let  the  red  return  into  thy  cheeks ;  thy 
Warning  is  not  lost,  but  let  all  things 
Proceed  as  though  this  phial  were  not  found. 

Haman : 
O  king,  I  add  my  prayers  to  those  thou'st  heard. 
And  beg  thee  take  great  care. 


66  THE  STAR  IN  THE  EAST 

King.     (Laughing) 

Thou'llt  see  some  sport, 
I  promise,  if  so  be,  it  is  as  we  have  heard. 
Come  !  to  the  feast ! 

(They  scat  themselves,  the  King  on  the  royal  divan, 
Haman  on  the  other  side  of  Esther  zuho  takes 
the  center  couch.  Nicaso  claps  her  hands  and 
the  slaves  enter  bearing  dishes.  Vashti  comes 
forzvard  and  with  a  look  of  triumph  and  hatred 
pours  from  the  flagon  she  has  prepared  for  the 
King,  the  zvine  into  his  goblet.  The  other 
Slaves  place  meats,  etc.,  on  the  table.  The 
King  holds  up  the  goblet,  Vashti  standing  be- 
hind his  chair.) 

This  wine,  poured  but  for  me. 
Is  it  some  rare  and  costly  vintage? 

Queen.     ( Palteringly) 
'Tis  made  of  white  grapes  in  Armenia, 
Blended  with  purple  in  a  secret  way 
That  none  but  dwellers  in  that  country 
Know.    I — I — I've  heard  it  praised. 

King.     (Lifts  his  glass  again  as  though  prepar- 
ing to  drink) 
Here  in  this  cup  of  gold  are  liquid  rubies 
Pressed  from  finest  grapes ;  grown  but  for  me  the 

king 
To  slake  his  thirst ;  a  royal  wine,  and  fit 
For  royal  lips. 

(He  lowers  the  cup,  and  Vashti's  impatience 
grows.) 

Men  say  I  am  a  stern,  relentless  king, 

Slow  to  forgive,  and  quick  to  spring  to  wrath ; 


THE  STAR  IN  THE  EAST  ^-j 

I  forget  not  a  wrong,  yet  I  neglect 

No  recompense  to  them  who  serve  me  well. 

Behind  my  chair  stands  one  who  once  I  chose 

To  honour  with  my  love.    She  is  highborn. 

To  witness  to  you  all,  that  I  rememlaer 

Her  birth  was  far  above  her  station  now, 

I  will  do  her  a  signal  favour. 

Before  I  touch  this  goblet  with  my  lips 

She  shall  its  contents  drain. 

(With,  a  gesture  of  much  condescension  he  offers  the 
cup  to  Vashti  7vho  has  come  around  before  him 
to  the  end  of  the  table.  She  does  not  move  to 
take  it.) 

Wouldst  thou  refuse ?    (Sternly.) 
Dost  think  the  honour  is  too  great?    Or  dost 
Thou  see  perchance  not  wine,  but  blood  which  brims 
About  the  rim  ? 

Vashti.     (Taking  the  cup  as  though  hypnotized) 
I  like  not  wine,  O  king! 

King: 
Drink!    I  command  thee!     Drink  the  wine  poured 

out 
By  thee,  for  me,  the  King  of  All  the  World ! 

Vashti.     (Lifting  her  goblet  and  looking  at  the 
King  with  hatred) 
I  would  that  thou  hadst  drained  it  in  my  stead! 
'Twas  cunningly  prepared.     Its  work  is  swift. 

(She  drinks  and  falls  back  into  the  arms  of  a  Slave 
who  at  a  gesture  from  the  King  carries  her  out. 
Esther  hides  her  face  in  horror  during  this 
scene.) 

Haman : 
So  perish  all  thy  enemies,  O  king! 


68  THE  STAR  IN  THE  EAST 

Within  thy  palace  or  without  its  walls! 

King: 
Amen!     Now  bring  fresh  wine,  and  we'll  forget 
This  ominous  beginning  to  our  feast. 

(The  Slaves  bring  in  fresh  flagons,  carrying  out  the 
first  ones,  and  the  three  eat  and  drink,  Esther 
sparingly.) 

My  queen,  this  banquet  doth  exceed  my  hopes  ; 
It  sees  the  end  of  our  most  bitter  foe ; 
We  sit  here  with  this  friend  who  loves  us  both, 
The  rarest  fruits  are  here,  the  choicest  meats. 
The  wines  exceed  in  body  and  perfume 
The  finest  in  our  kingdom.    While  we  sit 
And  sip  at  their  delights,  what  hast  thou  to 
Beguile  us? 

Esther: 

Wilt  thou  see  dancing  first? 
Or  rather  hear  the  maidens  with  the  lutes? 
Both  wait  thy  pleasure,  Lord. 

King: 
Nay,  rather  we  would  hear  the  honeyed  words 
Which  falling  from  thy  lips  do  tempt  the  bees, 
To  seek  their  hoard  there,  thinking  them  a  rose. 
So  tell  us  a  tale,  my  queen.    Thou  surely  hast 
Some  happening  to  relate,  some  boon  to  ask 
Which  we  but  wait  to  hear,  to  say  "  'Tis  granted  I" 

Esther: 
I  fear,  O  king,  I  have  no  tale  of  mirth ; 
No  story  sweet  of  jinns  or  giants  great. 
But  if,  Ahasuerus,  thou  wilt  hear 
A  sorry  tale  of  exiles  and  their  wrongs ; 
A  tale  of  plotting  'gainst  a  favoured  queen ; 
A  tale  of  hatred  and  of  high  ambition. 
Such  can  I  tell  to  stir  thy  kingly  heart. 


THE  STAR  IN  THE  EAST  69 

King: 
Say  on,  my  Esther !    Star  of  Persia,  speak ! 

Esther : 
My  Lord,  there  dwelt,  in  a  great  eastern  nation, 
Ruled  over  by  the  mightiest  of  kings 
And  wisest,  since  all  chronicles  began, 
A  people  proud,  exiled  from  their  own  land 
And  holy  temple. 

Sad  was  this  remnant  of  a  race,  yet  still 
They  kept  their  customs,  worshipped  the  true  God, 
Keeping  their  course  in  poverty  and  fear. 
To  them  their  prophets,  from  the  earliest  times. 
Had  promised  a  Messiah  should  be  born ; 
He  should  be  called  Immanuel,  being  God, 
And  should  redeem  His  people  and  the  world 
From  sin  and  death.     Thus  lived  they  on  in  hope. 
It  chanced  a  mighty  prince,  a  favorite  of  the  king, 
One  that  he  loved  before  all  other  men, 
Hated  these  exiles,  but  he  hated  most 
One  godly  man  amongst  them ;  even  the  man 
Who'd  given  the  king  his  life. 

("Haman  starts  and  becomes  uneasy  as  she  proceeds.) 

This  haughty  prince, 
Sure  of  his  favour  with  the  king  his  lord. 
Did  make  a  plot  how  to  destroy  this  man 
And  all  his  race. 

At  last  he  won  an  edict  from  his  lord. 
That  every  man  and  woman,  youth  and  babe. 
Should  die  the  death  upon  a  certain  day, 
Even  the  thirteenth  day  of  the  twelfth  month ; 
And  by  this  writ,  the  queen  would  die  the  first. 

(The  King  and  Haman  both  start,  and  the  King 
casts  a  glance  of  anger  at  Haman,  who  looks 
bewildered  and  aghast.) 


yo  THE  STAR  IN  THE  EAST 

For  the  queen  was  a  Jew !     Proud  daughter 
Of  the  man  he  hated  most,  of  Mordecai! 
Haman.     (Interrupting) 

0  queen,  forgive !     Thy  servant  did  not  know ! 
King.     (Looking  darkly  at  Haman  j 

An  enemy  and  adversary  he, 

Who'd  plot  against  the  queen.     What  did  the  Wing. 

My  Msthcr,  tell  me  that  ? 

Esther: 
My  lord,  here  ends  the  tale. 

Tis  thou  alone 
Must  finish  up  the  chronicle. 

King: 
No !    By  my  love,  my  Star  shall  end  the  tale 
Even  as  she  wills.    Go  on.    We'll  hear  the  end. 

Esther.     At  thy  high  peasure.     (She  pauses  a 
moment,  then  proceeds  more  slou'ly.) 
Then  this  gracious  king,  this  ruler  of  the  world 
Sent  word, 

That  Mordecai,  the  Jew,  should  come  to  him. 
And  in  his  presence  he  revoked 
This  murderous  edict,  this  most  cruel  writ 
Which  he  had  signed.     Thus  did  he  save  the  life 
Of  his  beloved,  of  his  Star,  his  queen. 

King: 

1  like  thy  ending,  yet  'tis  not  the  end. 

(Turns  to  Harbonah  zs.'ho  stands  in  the  doorway 
and  who  comes  forzvard  as  he  is  called.) 

Harbonah,  call  me  Mordecai,  the  Jew. 

(As  the  King  speaks  Haman  rises  partly  as  though 
he  ivould  do  the  bidding,  but  the  King  stops  him 
with  a  gesture.) 


THE  STAR  IN  THE  EAST  71 

Not  thee,  thou  shaJt  be  present  till  the  end. 
Thou  wouldst  not  leave  before  the  story's  done ! 

Haman : 
Mercy,  O  king !  thy  servant  did  not  know ! 

King  : 
So  shall  he  learn.    Ah,  here  comes  Mordecai! 

(Enter  Mordecai  preceded  by  Harbonah.    Morde- 
cai bows  before  the  KingJ 

Welcome,  my  friend,  the  saviour  of  my  life! 
But  now  I  learn  that  I  owe  thee  still  more ; 
Because  thou  art  the  father  of  my  queen. 

Mordecai  : 
Live  thou  forever,  king.    I  did  indeed 
Upraise  her  as  my  daughter.    Since  her  youth 
I've  loved  her  as  the  fruit  of  mine  own  loins. 
Her  father  was  the  brother  of  my  sire, 
And  when  he  died,  even  bowed  down  with  grief 
At  our  sad  exile,  I  took  her  gladly 
To  my  heart  and  hearth.    She  is  of  royal  blood. 
Equal  thine  own.    The  blood  of  Jewish  kings 
Of  ancient  days. 

King: 
Again  our  thanks  are  thine.    Now  for  a  matter 
Of  serious  import ;  this  edict  which 
Lord  Haman  hath  devised,  dost  truly  think 
It  would  have  harmed  our  queen? 

Mordecai  : 
Twill  cost  her  life  if  so  it  be  enforced. 
It  reads,  O  king,  "that  no  Jew  shall  be  spared, 
And  whoso  would  show  pity  to  one  such, 
Whate'er  their  station  be,  his  life  shall  pay 
The  forfeit!"     My  king,  thou  knowest  how  strictly 
Men  enforce  the  law  of  Medes  and  Persians. 

King: 


-ji  THE  STAR  IN  THE  EAST 

Yes,  yes,  I  know.    It  was  a  plot  a  fiend 
Would  gloat  upon  ;  to  make  me  give  the  word 
That  would  condemn  her  who  is  dearer  to  me 
Than  my  life!     And  thou?    What  hast  thou  done 
To  foil  such  villainy? 

MORDECAI  : 

Three  days  ago  I  came  to  warn  the  queen, 

And  since  that  time  our  race  has  fasted, 

Putting  up  their  prayer,  unto  our  Lord, 

The  God  of  Israel ;  a  mighty  prayer 

We  made,  that  He  would  put  pity  and  mercy 

Into  the  king's  heart,  so  should  the  queen's  life 

And  our  own  be  spared. 

King: 
Thy  God  must  be  a  mighty  God  indeed 
For  so  it  comes  to  pass.     I  do  revoke 
This  edict.     Harbonah,  tell  the  scribe 
To  make  another  writing,  in  the  which 
I  shall  decree  instead,  that  every  Jew 
With  all  their  priests  and  Levites  in  my  realm, 
Which  shall  be  mindful  of  their  own  free  will 
To  journey  to  Jerusalem,  there  to  live. 
May  do  so. 

Further,  I  would  send  a  gift  of  silver 
And  of  gold,  or  rams  and  beeves,  as  offering 
To  the  temple  of  this  great  God,  this  God 
Of  thine,  who  is  more  powerful  than  fire. 
Only  thou,  Mordecai,  thou  must  not  go. 
Thou  shalt  remain  here  with  thy  king  and  queen. 
Lodge  in  our  palace,  counsel  with  us  oft, 
And  teach  us  of  this  God  of  Israel. 

Mordecai.     (Bowing  before  the  dais) 
Gracious  and  very  mighty  art  thou.  Lord; 
As  is  our  God  to  every  other  god. 
So  art  thou  to  all  other  kings  of  earth! 
In  memory  and  in  token  of  thy  grace, 


THE  STAR  IN  THE  EAST  73 

My  people,  henceforth,  shall,  in  every  year, 

Upon  the  fourteenth  day  of  Adar, 

The  day  next  after  that  when  they  were  doomed, 

Make  a  great  feast,  called  Purim,  or  the  Feast 

Of  Lots ;  because  their  fate  decided  was 

By  lot.    Our  God  shall  give  thee  happiness, 

And  peace,  and  children  many  as  the  fruitful  vine — 

And  furthermore,  this  chronicle  of  thine 

Shall  be  accounted  worthy  to  be  read 

By  every  people  and  in  every  tongue 

So  long  as  books  shall  last. 

King.     (Much  pleased) 
Such  words  of  promise  and  of  gratitude 
Are  pleasing  to  mine  ears.     (Turning  to  Haman.J 
But  still  remains  this  traitor,  this  vile  man 
Who   would   have   killed   my   queen  and   my    true 

friend ! 
What  fate  is  fit  for  him? 

Haman.     (Falling  prostrate   before   the  KingJ 
Mercy,  O  king! 

King: 

No!    Justice!    (Twrwj  fo  Harbonah.J 
How  planned  Lord  Haman  here  to  end  the  life 
Of  Mordecai,  the  Jew? 

Harbonah  : 
May't  please  the  king  to  hear,  he  hath  ordained 
A  gallows  to  be  built  before  his  house, 
To  stand  the  height  of  fifty  cubits.    Here, 
When  the  sun  shed  his  first  rays  on  that  day 
On  which  the  Jews  were  all  condemned  to  die, 
Mordecai  was  to  hang  till  he  was  dead. 

King: 
Then  justly  I  decree,  that  ere  the  sun 
Breaks  through  the  mists  which  shroud  to-morrow's 

morn, 
Thou  shalt  hang  Haman  high  upon  the  frame 


74  THE  STAR  IN  THE  EAST 

Me  built  for  Mordecai.     Away  with  him! 

fHAMAN  is  led  a7i'ay  by  Harbonah  and  some  of  the 
guard.  Mordecai  stands  zvith  his  hands  up- 
lifted as  though  in  exultation.) 

Mordecai  : 
"They  have  digged  a  pit  before  me 
And  fallen  into  the  midst  of  it  themselves. 
Our  soul  is  escaped  as  a  bird  out  of  the  snare  of 

the  fowlers ; 
The  snare  is  broken  and  we  are  escaped." 

(The  look  of  a  seer  comes  over  Mordecai's  face.) 

I  see  Immanuel  coming  as  a  king ! 
I  see  His  kingdom  spread  through  all  the  earth ! 
The  Jews,  this  remnant  unto  whom  He'll  come 
Are  saved !    The  world  is  saved !    Clear  shines  the 

star 
To  light  us  on  our  way !    And  yet — 
And  yet — above  it  all — I  see  a  cross — 
A  cross!     I  do  not  comprehend 

^Esther  and  the  King  draw  near  to  Mordecai  and 
watch  him  with  awe.) 

Esther.     (In  azve-struck  tones) 
A  cross,  my  father  ?    Look  not  so  aghast ! 
Fear  not.    Trust  in  the  Lord, 
The  God  of  Israel 
Who  hath  been  our  help  throughout  all  generations ! 

(As  the  curtain  slowly  falls,  Mordecai  still  stands 
pondering  over  the  words  which  he  repeats.  "A 
cross!    A  cross!" ) 


LIBRARY 
UNIVFRSTTY  OF  CALIFORNIA 


Costumes 


Pictures  of  all  costumes  for  the  characters  in 
this  play  may  be  found  in  "The  Illuminated  Holy 
Bible  With  Maps  and  Help"  published  by  Ameri- 
can Bible  House,  No.  12  West  32nd  Street,  New 
York  City,  or  by  obtaining  the  illustrations  b^' 
Tissot  for  the  book  of  Esther  from  The  Tissot 
Picture  Society  in  care  of  American  Bible  House, 
12  West  32nd  Street,  New  York  City. 


WHY  THE  CHIMES  RANG,  a  play  in  one  act  by  Elizabeth 
McFadden.  Adapted  from  the  story  of  the  same  name  by  R.  M. 
Alden.  Especially  recommended  as  a  Christmas  play  because:  It 
teaches  the  story  of  the  Christ  child,  rather  than  the  Byzantine 
legend  of  Santa  Claus.  It  may  be  adapted  to  the  ritual  of  any 
Christian  denomination  by  slight  changes  of  costume  and  setting. 
It  offers  a  rare  opportunity  for  exquisite  church  music.  It  may  be 
given  in  the  barest  room,  against  a  background  of  Christmas  greens, 
or  it  may  be  presented  with  the  most  lavish  equipment  of  a  profes- 
sional theatre,  yet  both  productions  will  thrill  the  imagination  and 
touch  the  heart.  It  teaches  the  beauty  of  a  charity  that  gives  heart 
and  service  as  well  as  gold.     Price,  3S  cents. 

THE  CHRISTMAS  STORY,  dramatized  by  Virginia  A.  Gris- 
wold.  This  is  the  Bible  story  of  the  birth  of  the  Christ,  using  the 
Bible  language  as  far  as  possible.  It  lends  itself  to  four  scenes: 
The  hill  country  of  Judea,  the  throne-room  of  Herod,  the  market- 
place in  Bethlehem  and  the  stable  with  the  manger.  It  can  be 
produced  in  the  simplest  manner  on  a  platform,  or  with  all  the 
Oriental  setting  and  accessories  'which  the  imagination  and  means 
can  provide.  Plays  about  an  hour,  and  any  number  of  people,  adults 
and  children,  can  be  used.  Makes  an  admirable  Christmas  enter- 
tainment and  is  well  adapted  for  the  use  of  «hurches  and  schools. 
Price,  35  cents. 

THE  NIGHT  BEFORE  CHRISTMAS.  A  Christmas  play  in 
three  short  acts  by  William  Patterson  Tavlor.  The  NIGHT  BE- 
FORE CHRISTMAS  is  a  little  play  in  three  acts  which  may  be 
produced  well  v/ithin  an  hour.  The  first  act  presents  the  wondrous 
and  hurried  night  before  Christmas  preparation  activities  in  Santa's 
workshop  at  the  North  Pole.  The  second  act  is  a  night  before 
Christmas  home  bedchamber  incident,  involving  the  desperate  situa- 
tion resulting  from  a  childish  difference  between  two  brothers,  which 
difference — "made  up"  true — introduces,  also,  the  woeful  possibilities 
of  Santa's  calamitous  displeasure.  (In  this  and  the  last  act  the 
children's  classic,  "The  Night  Before  Christmas,"  is  dramatized.) 
In  the  third  act  "All's  well  that  ends  well."  A  quartette  supplies  the 
music.  This  little  play  has  grown  during  years  of  local  use  by  the 
author  and  others.  Its  unbroken  success  in  stirring  and  impressing 
the  children  (and  the  "grown-ups,"  too — whom,  also,  the  author 
aimed  to  reach)  was  urged  as  a  reason  for  its  publication.  Strongly 
recommended  as  an  entertainment  for  the  bolidav  season.  Price,  30 
cents. 

A  DREAM  ON  CHRISTMAS  EVE.  A  very  pleasing  enter- 
tainment for  little  folks,  by  Ina  Home.  Time  about  thirty  minutes, 
but  it  can  be  lengthened  to  any  duration  by  the  further  introduction 
of  each  child's  specialty.  The  costumes  are  according  to  the  char- 
acter represented  and  are  easiljr  made.  The  story  is  the  dream  of  a 
little  girl  on  Christmas  eve,  in  which  she  views  the  good  things 
vrhich  she  is  to  receive  on  the  morrow.  Santa  Claus  enters  and 
while  filling  the  stocking  tells  a  story  of  the  little  people  to  whom 
lie  gives  his  presents,  "rhen  the  Christmas  pudding  enters  and  tells 
how  she  was  made.  Then  the  pumpkin  pie,  the  holly,  mistletoe,  ice 
cream,  crackers,  candy,  etc.,  enter  and  tell  their  stones.  The  play 
is  easy  to  give  and  can  be  held  in  the  class  room,  Sunday-school 
or  a  home.    Price,  JO  cents. 

THE  TOY  SHOP,  a  new  and  original  entertainment  for  children 
by  F.  S.  Isham  and  Edward  WeitreT,  with  some  new  and  up-to-date 
music.  No  special  number  required.  Particularly  adapted  to  school 
or  Sunday-school  entertainments.  One  of  the  best  entertainments  for 
children  published.    Price  30  cents. 


SAMUEL  FRENCH,  Publisher,  28-30  West  38th  Street 


SOUTHUMBERLAND'S  YULE-TIDE,  »   {.scitutinc  and 

practical  comtnunitjr  Chriitmac  muque,  by  C.  Arthur  Coan.  Thia 
delightful  fcftival  is  written  in  the  ipirit  of  the  traditional  Yule 
celebrations  of  olden  days,  and  is  so  conceived  as  to  permit  the 
whole  school  or  community,  old,  young,  rich  or  poor,  to  take  an 
active  part.  The  costumes  are  fully  described  and  the  instruction* 
are  in  detail.  Suitable  for  community  or  school  use.  Price,  50 
cents. 

MOTHER  GOOSE'S  CHRISTMAS  VISIT.  An  entirely  new 
and  original  entertainment  for  children  by  Edith  Thompson  Langley. 
This  very  pleasing  entertainment  embraces  most  of  the  Mother 
Goose  characters,  and  any  number  of  children,  boys  and  girls, 
young  and  old,  can  take  part.  Songs  and  specialties  can  be 
introduced  and  the  action  prolonged  to  any  length  of  time  desired. 
It  introduces  Santa  Claus  and  the  Christmas  tree  and  all  the  favorite 
characters  of  the  little  ones.  It  is  an  admirable  entertainment  for 
the  Christmas  holidays,  and  is  printed  complete  with  music,  sug- 
gestions for  staging,  costuming,  etc.  Flays  about  an  hour.  This 
entertainment  has  always  been  a  great  success  wherever  produced. 
Price,  30  cents. 

THE  GIFT.  A  symbolic  play  in  one  act  by  Marie  A.  Foley.  The 
action  passes  in  a  simple  room  of  a  little  house  near  Judea  during 
the  lifetime  of  Our  Lord.  The  characters  are  two  men,  one  woman 
and  three  children.  The  costumes — tunic  draperies — make  it  easily 
possible  to  be  played  by  an  all  female  cast.  Joel,  a  little  lame  boy, 
firmly  believes  the  Galilean  can  cure  him  of  his  lameness  if  he  will 
go  and  ask  Him.  In  preparation  the  boy  makes  a  wreath  of  white 
roses  as  a  gift  for  the  Galilean.  Huldah,  with  whom  Joel  lives,  a 
woman  with  neither  heart  nor  imagination,  ridicules  the  boy's  faith, 
throws  the  wreath  into  the  fire  and  frustrates  the  boy's  going  by 
leaving  him  in  sole  charge  of  her  father,  an  aged  and  infirm  man. 
A  stranger,  blind,  also  seeking  the  Galilean,  to  regain  his  sight, 
stops  at  the  door  for  food  and  rest.  The  boy  takes  him  in.  Acci- 
dentally the  stranger  comes  in  contact  with  the  charred  wreath 
which  Joel  has  dragged  from  the  fire.  The  stranger  hears  about  the 
wreath's  purpose  and  offers  to  carry  it  to  the  Galilean.  Joel  explans 
its  sorry  plight.  "The  Galilean  will  understand,"  answers  the 
stranger.  "But  it  is  black  and  ugly,"  exclaims  the  boy.  "But  not 
the  heart  that  fashioned  it,"  he  is  answered.  The  stranger  then 
learns  of  the  boy's  desire  to  be  cured  and  offers  himself  to  remain 
there  with  the  aged  man  while  the  boy  goes  to  get  his  heart's  desire. 
The  boy  accepts  the  stranger's  great  sacrifice  (much  to  the  disappoint- 
ment of  the  old  invalid)  and  leaves  the  house.  However,  in  a  few 
minutes  the  boy  is  back  again  crying  out  that  he  cannot  go.  "It 
is  much  worse  being  blind  than  being  lame."  The  stranger  is  put 
upon  the  road  by  the  boy  to  seek  the  Galilean.  The  boy  watching 
him  through  the  window  sees  the  stranger  meet  with  a  Traveller, 
sees  the  giving  of  his  burnt  wreath  to  the  Traveller,  its  trans- 
formation into  beautiful  crimson  roses  as  it  touches  the  Traveller's 
hands,  then  the  return  of  the  stranger  no  longer  blind  to  the  house. 
In  his  joy  the  boy  leaps  across  the  room  to  the  door  to  find  that  his 
crutches  have  dropped  to  the  floor  and  he  has  leaped  across  the 
room  unaided — cured.  The  play  ends  with  much  joy  for  all  three 
in  the  room  while  outside  is  heard  the  voice  of  the  unbeliever, 
"Strange  we  missed  Him;  He  must  have  passed  this  way."  Tbc 
stranger  answers,  "Yes,  He  passed  thia  ynj"    Price,  35  cent*. 


SAMUEL  FRENCH,  Publisher,  28-30  West  38th  Street 


3  1205  02385  4944 


UC  SOUTHERN  REGIONAL  LIBRARY  FACILITY 


AA    001  037  264    7 


